By Clay LePard
clepard@cbs4qc.com
They are calling it the way of the future; one metal is on the cutting edge of the military's ingredient list.
Just three years ago, the Rock Island Arsenal began making a variety of parts out of titanium. Now, they say the pieces they're manufacturing are better than ever.
"Making the guns lighter, more durable and our equipment making it more lighter and durable," says Shannon Martin, investment casting worker.
Compared to steel, titanium is less corrosive and about 45% lighter, which can be the difference between life and death on the battlefield.
"Anything we can do to help the average solider out or keep our machinery running and make it stronger and lighter is good for us," Martin adds.
It all happens at the Arsenal, inside the nation's only titanium foundry located on an army installation. Workers pour the titanium inside a chamber called "The Crucible."
"We have no atmosphere inside here when the vacuum is running," Martin explains.
The titanium melts into the mold at a temperature exceeding 3,000 degrees. From there, the pieces are sent for finishing.
"The [pieces] are so hard," Martin says. "They would break cutting tools."
While Arsenal workers are thousands of miles away from the action, they say they're honored to help lighten the load for soldiers.
"Melting is something I love to do [and I] really love this job," Martin adds. "This is my way to give back to my country for working here."
Next week, we take you behind the scenes at the Arsenal Museum and show you hidden treasures you won't see on display.
