Flow Form Rifling is a newer method used by forming the grooves and lands in the barrel as well as the outside of the barrel at the same time. A barrel blank is flow formed over a special mandrel containing th exact reverse image of the inside of the barrel. The blank is rotated in both directions. axial and radial directions. The axial rotation literally stretches the blank to length and then the radial direction presses the grooves and lands into it internally. Many say that this will be the method used by most larger manufacturers in the future because allegedly:
1 higher accuracy and precision standards can be obtained
2 It can produce stronger and lighter barrels with better flexibility and strain hardening
3 It improves the barrels fatigue life
4 Prevents secondary operations like turning, grinding, etc.
5 has economical and faster production rates
1 higher accuracy and precision standards can be obtained
2 It can produce stronger and lighter barrels with better flexibility and strain hardening
3 It improves the barrels fatigue life
4 Prevents secondary operations like turning, grinding, etc.
5 has economical and faster production rates