Abstract: A structural component is provided comprising a base member comprising at least two sidewalls and a space therebetween, the base member having a predetermined curvilinear configuration formed using hot stretch forming. The structural component comprises at least one reinforcing member linear friction welded to the at least two sidewalls so that the reinforcing member is positioned at least partially within the space between the at least two sidewalls.

Abstract: A structural component is provided comprising a base member comprising at least two sidewalls and a space therebetween, the base member having a predetermined curvilinear configuration formed using hot stretch forming. The structural component comprises at least one reinforcing member linear friction welded to the at least two sidewalls so that the reinforcing member is positioned at least partially within the space between the at least two sidewalls.

Abstract: A structural component is provided comprising a base member comprising at least two sidewalls and a space therebetween, the base member having a predetermined curvilinear configuration formed using hot stretch forming. The structural component comprises at least one reinforcing member linear friction welded to the at least two sidewalls so that the reinforcing member is positioned at least partially within the space between the at least two sidewalls.

Abstract: A stretch-forming apparatus includes a main frame which carries a die enclosure between jaw assemblies. An insulated die is mounted in the enclosure. A method of forming a component includes placing a workpiece in the enclosure, heating the workpiece to a working temperature using electrical resistance heating, and then stretching the workpiece against the die. The method is particularly useful for titanium workpieces.

Abstract: A jaw assembly for a stretch former, including a jaw body, an annular nose piece carried by the jaw body and defining an insert chamber, and a tapered-wall insert sleeve for being locked into the insert chamber of the nose piece. The insert sleeve defines an internal bore having tapered walls. An insert is positioned in the bore of the insert sleeve. The insert has a plurality of segments collectively defining a profile corresponding to the profile of a workpiece to be stretch-formed, the insert having a tapered outer wall for sliding, interference fit engagement with the tapered walls of the insert sleeve for locking the insert into the jaw and clamping the workpiece into the insert.

Abstract: A leveling apparatus for leveling a die mounted on die posts on a die base. The die base has first and second die posts on which is mounted a die for adjustable vertical movement. A first motor is operatively connected to the first die post for moving the first die post in a vertical direction. A first vertical position sensor cooperates with the first motor for sensing the vertical position of the first die post. A first servo-feedback device interconnects the first motor and the first vertical position sensor for transmitting a vertical position signal from the first vertical position sensor to the first servo-feedback device. A second motor is operatively connected to the second die post for moving the second die post in a vertical direction. A second vertical position sensor cooperates with the second motor for sensing the vertical position of the second die post.