Flame straightening is often a suitable method. It costs significantly less to flame straighten than to make new parts. In fact, it is often the only alternative. In the ship-building industry up to half of working time is taken up by straightening of deformations.
Flame straightening is carried out by rapidly heating the construction or piece locally. This causes a local deformation since the heat distribution is prevented by the surrounding cold material. When the material cools down it will shrink, correcting the deformation. The method is suitable for steel, nickel, copper, brass, aluminium and titanium.
Even though different fuel gases can be used for heating, acetylene is the best choice since it provides the hottest and most concentrated flame as well as the fastest heating. By using ODOROX® (odorized oxygen) you can minimize the risk of fire and explosion which is associated with fuel gases. The smell warns of gas leaks in good time.
The choice of equipment for flame straightening depends on the material to be straightened. With a standard burner it is possible to straighten up to 15 mm thick plates. For the straightening of large areas, as in ship production, special burners with three or more nozzles are used. These burners are mounted on wheels to enable them to be moved easily over large areas.
Avoid risks by following the safety instructions for hot work.
