#United States #Aerospace #ATI #titanium alloy #Pageland

ATI Expands Titanium Alloy Production for Aerospace

In a significant move for the aerospace industry, ATI Inc. (NYSE: ATI) has inaugurated a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Pageland, South Carolina. This facility focuses on producing titanium alloy sheets, which are essential for creating strong and durable components in aerostructures. The introduction of this manufacturing line marks a crucial step in meeting the increasing demand from airframe manufacturers for high-quality titanium materials.

Catering to Industry Needs

According to Kimberly A. Fields, President and CEO of ATI, the decision to expand their offerings was largely influenced by customer requests for titanium alloy sheets. The Pageland facility is designed to produce sheets that boast superior dimensions—wider and longer than conventional products available in the market. This new addition to ATI's product lineup signifies their commitment to innovation and quality within the aerospace sector.

The titanium sheets produced at Pageland are crafted through a precise process known as 'pack rolling.' This technique involves hot rolling layers of titanium plates down to ultra-thin gauges as thin as 0.020 inches and lengths stretching up to 25 feet. These metrics enable the production of sheets that not only meet but exceed rigorous industry standards, paving the way for enhanced aerostructure manufacturing.

Strategic Partnerships

ATI's expansion into titanium alloy sheet production comes on the heels of a recent multi-year agreement with Airbus. This pivotal partnership guarantees a supply of titanium plates, sheets, and billets for both narrow and widebody aircraft. The new sheets will specifically cater to Airbus's manufacturing requirements, with an estimated two-thirds of the Pageland facility’s production capacity now committed under long-term agreements with various aerospace stakeholders. The qualifications for these new products are already in progress, further solidifying the operational capabilities of the facility.

Sustainable Manufacturing Practices

Understanding the modern demand for sustainability, the Pageland operations have been set up with eco-friendly practices at the forefront. The facility encompasses nearly 125,000 square feet and is heavily automated to ensure efficient production while adhering to green standards. Notably, the facility utilizes all-electric furnaces, aligning with South Carolina’s goals for greener power solutions, thus achieving zero air emissions and reducing wastewater discharge to a minimum.

ATI's Commitment to the Future

ATI is recognized as a leader in high-performance materials tailored for aerospace and defense applications as well as electronics, healthcare, and specialized energy sectors. Their materials are engineered to endure the most challenging environments, allowing customers to push the boundaries of technology. With an emphasis on innovation and strategic alliances, ATI aims to address complex challenges worldwide through advanced materials science.

As the aerospace industry continues to evolve, ATI's investment in the Pageland facility underscores their strategic vision—and positions them strongly in the competitive landscape of high-performance titanium manufacturing. This development not only highlights ATI’s commitment to customer partnership but also affirms their role as a pivotal player in driving advancements within the aerospace sector.

For more information about ATI and their latest product offerings, visit their official website at ATImaterials.com.

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