Superplastic Forming Technologies and Implementation at Boeing Over the Past 25 Years

This paper examines the strategy devised for implementing superplastic forming (SPF) at Boeing from its early history to the present day.  Titanium and aluminum part fabrication is discussed, along with examples of how built up assemblies have been converted to monolithic designs.  The most recently developed technology that combines SPF with friction stir welding of titanium for tailor shaped blanks is presented.