Technology

Vacuum Explosion Cladding

At Shockwave Metalworking Technologies, we specialize in producing clad plates using advanced vacuum explosion welding. This state-of-the-art process enables the bonding of metals that cannot be joined by conventional welding methods, resulting in exceptionally strong, oxide-free connections with outstanding mechanical and chemical performance.

What is Vacuum Explosion Cladding?

Explosion cladding fuses two or more dissimilar metals through a high-velocity oblique impact generated by controlled explosives. Within a vacuum chamber, this process creates extreme pressures that form an atomic, solid-state bond—without melting or causing thermal distortion.

The outcome is bi-metallic and tri-metallic plates that preserve the unique properties of each metal while delivering superior strength, durability, and performance in the most demanding environments.

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Clad Plate Manufacturing Process

Material Preparation & Inspection

Base and cladding metals are thoroughly cleaned and polished to ensure optimal bonding conditions.

Assembly

The cladding metal is precisely positioned over the base metal with controlled spacing.

Explosive Placement

A custom engineered explosive layer and detonator are applied.

Vacuum Chamber

The assembly is sealed in a vacuum chamber, reducing explosive use while improving precision and environmental safety.

Controlled Detonation

A high-velocity impact creates a permanent atomic bond between the metals.

Finishing

Plates are leveled, cut & grinded on request to achieve superior surface quality.

Quality Control

Each plate undergoes rigorous visual inspections, ultrasonic testing, and destructive testing to validate performance.

Packaging & Delivery

Products are securely packed to ensure they arrive in perfect condition.
Advantages of the Vacuum Process

Shorter Lead Times

Fully in-house production ensures speed and reliability

Superior Process Control

Independent of external environmental conditions

Higher Precision

Reduced explosive use minimizes deformation and enhances accuracy

Cost Efficiency

Thin noble-metal layers bonded to more economical base materials

Unmatched Flexibility

Enables joining of metals that cannot be welded by conventional methods

Preserved Material Integrity

Original properties of each metal remain intact

Exceptional Bond Strength

Atomic bonds stronger than the weakest material

Perfect Finish

Smooth, homogeneous surfaces with no need for intermediate inspection
Main Applications of Clad Plates

Our vacuum explosion welded clad plates are relied upon in industries where resistance to corrosion, pressure, wear and temperature is essential:

Oil & Gas

Chemical & Petrochemical

Power Generation

Desalination Plants

Cryogenic industry

Steelmaking & Hydrometallurgy

Aluminum Foundries

Shipbuilding

And many more

Vacuum Cladding
  • 100% Dense
  • 100% quarantee on Dye-Penetrant
  • Optimized ductility, no cracks during bending
  • Optimized fatigue strength
  • No crevice or galvanic corrosion
  • Asymmetric welding is acceptable
Vacuum explosion cladding example
Open air cladding explosion example
Open Air Cladding
  • Intermetallics on the interface
  • No Dye-Penetrant guarantee
  • Cracks during bending
  • Limited fatigue strength
  • Oxides on the interface initiate corrosion
  • Not acceptable due to more brittle interface
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Shockwave
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