Location History:
- Salzgitter-Lebenstedt, DE (1978)
- Salzgitter, DE (1979)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1978-1979
Title: Alfred Babilon: Innovator in Steel Wire Technology
Introduction
Alfred Babilon is a notable inventor based in Salzgitter-Lebenstedt, Germany. He has made significant contributions to the field of steel wire technology, holding two patents that showcase his innovative approach to manufacturing processes.
Latest Patents
Babilon's latest patents focus on methods of making steel wire adapted for cold drawing. One patent describes a process where a steel wire, after coming from the mill, is brought to a temperature between 850°C and 910°C. This is followed by multi-stage water-cooling, ensuring that the surface of the wire cools below the martensite start temperature while retaining austenite in the core. The heat retained in the core partially tempers the martensite formed at the surface. The wire is coiled while maintaining a constant temperature, allowing the retained austenite to undergo an isothermal transformation to fine pearlite. After coiling, the wire is air-cooled to room temperature, resulting in a structure that consists of an outer layer of tempered martensite and a core of fine pearlite, which imparts excellent cold-working characteristics.
Another patent details a similar process where the steel wire is rolled while in the austenitic range and then cooled to a temperature between 850°C and 910°C. The cooling step is designed to bring the surface temperature below the martensite start temperature in approximately 0.2 seconds. The final structure of the wire, consisting of fully tempered martensite and fine pearlite, allows for significant cold-working capabilities, with reductions in area during cold-working reaching 85 percent or more.
Career Highlights
Alfred Babilon is currently employed at Stahlwerke Peine-Salzgitter AG, where he continues to innovate in the field of steel wire manufacturing. His work has contributed to advancements in the properties of steel wire, enhancing its strength and cold-working characteristics.
Collaborations
Babilon has collaborated with notable coworkers such as Hans Paulitsch and Gerhard Kiefer, contributing to the development of innovative steel wire technologies.
Conclusion
Alfred Babilon's contributions to steel wire technology through his patents demonstrate his expertise and commitment to innovation in the field. His work continues to influence the manufacturing processes of steel wire, showcasing the importance of research and development in industrial applications.