Metal cladding is a process where dissimilar layers of metals are bonded together. This is a metallurgical process that does not use adhesives or binding agents. It is produced by applying extreme pressure and, in some cases, heat and/or explosion. The process can metallurgically bond one type of material to another (two layers) or create double bonds (three layers).
Non-ferrous cladded metal plates combine the unique properties of non-ferrous metals such as copper, aluminum, or nickel with other metals for optimized performance. Think of enhanced corrosion resistance, conductivity, or mechanical strength. These plates are ideal for applications where durability, conductivity, and weight play a crucial role, such as in the electrical, aerospace, and chemical industries.
By cladding precious metals like gold, silver, or platinum onto other metals, a material is created that combines the high-quality properties of these valuable metals with a robust, cost-effective base. Refractory metals such as molybdenum or tantalum can also be clad for applications under extreme temperatures. Alloyed clad metals furthermore offer customized solutions for specific requirements in chemical resistance, heat resistance, and structural integrity.
Multi-layer cladding allows for the combination of three or more layers of different metals into a single composite plate. This creates a material precisely tailored to the application: a wear-resistant outer layer, a corrosion-resistant intermediate layer, and a mechanically strong core. These plates are widely used in sectors where multiple properties are required simultaneously, such as in power plants, shipbuilding, or petrochemical installations.
Cladding is applied not only to plates but also to pipes and pipe components. These clad pipes combine a corrosion-resistant inner layer with a strong supporting outer layer. This is particularly essential in the chemical and oil and gas sectors, where pipelines are exposed to aggressive media and high pressures. Thanks to the cladding process, the mechanical properties are preserved while the lifespan is significantly extended.
No. | Clad Metal Type | Base Metal | Clad Layer Thickness | Base Layer Thickness | Width | Length |
1 | Ti & Ti Alloys | Carbon Steel Stainless Steel Copper, Aluminum Nickel |
1-8 1-8 8-12 8-12 |
>6 >6 >30 >30 |
≤3,000 ≤3,000 ≤4,000 ≤4,000 |
≤6,000 ≤6,000 ≤5,000 ≤5,000 |
2 | Cu & Cu Alloys | Carbon Steel Stainless Steel |
1-6 6-12 |
>6 >30 |
≤3,000 ≤3,000 |
≤6,000 ≤4,000 |
3 | Tantalum, Niobium Zirconium & Alloys |
Carbon Steel Stainless Steel |
1-6 6-12 |
>6 >30 |
≤2,000 ≤1,500 |
≤4,000 ≤2,500 |
Rod | OD. ≤ 70 x Length ≤ 2,500 | |||||
Tube | OD. ≤ 70 x Wall Thickness ≤ 5 x Length ≤ 4,500 |
Note: all dimensions are in mm.
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