Aperam Introduces Helical Production Method for Iron-Cobalt Alloys
Aperam has announced the launch of a production method named 'slinky', which allows the manufacturing of stators and rotors through helical winding in the plane. According to the company, this technique, already used in the electric steel industry, is applied to iron-cobalt alloys.
Introduction of the 'Slinky' Process
The 'slinky' process is based on a combination of linear cutting and helical bending in the plane, enabling the formation of motor components from continuous strips, the press release states. This approach differs from the traditional stamping cut process in sheet metal, which, according to the company, generates up to 70% material waste. With the 'slinky' method, metal losses are reduced to 10-30%, Aperam specifies. Iron-cobalt alloys, known for their exceptional magnetic performance, have been difficult to form, which has limited their efficient use until now. Aperam's innovation aims to overcome this obstacle by adapting the helical process to these specific materials.
Utilization of AFK Iron-Cobalt Alloy Range
Aperam highlights the use of its AFK iron-cobalt alloy range, including IMPHY AFK1, AFK18, and AFK502R. These materials, already used in aerospace, exhibit the highest saturation induction among known magnetic materials, according to the group. Combined with the 'slinky' process, they could achieve a 35% increase in power density for electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, a 25% torque gain for hypercars, and a 15% reduction in motor size, the company indicates. These improvements align with aviation's goals of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, the press release emphasizes.
Comments from Frederic Mattei, Director of Alloys and Specialties
Frederic Mattei, Director of Alloys and Specialties and Director of Innovation at Aperam, states that iron-cobalt alloys offer unmatched magnetic performance, but their cost has historically limited their effective use. According to him, the 'slinky' method drastically reduces waste while opening up new design possibilities for more efficient electric motors. The group positions this innovation as a response to the growing needs of the sustainable mobility sector, particularly for aviation, electric vertical takeoff aircraft, and hypercars. The company believes this technological advancement strengthens its long-term innovation strategy in the field of advanced electric propulsion.
