Types of metal forging

What can be done hot, cold or warm and generally requires forming with a hammer or press? Metal forging. Parts that are created by forging importers are used in many different applications, from automobiles to loudspeakers.

Metal forging is based on the same concept blacksmith's used in making horseshoes. Instead of multiple blows with the hammer on the anvil, compressive force is used. The slow squeezing action of a press allows the material to remain uniform in size. In the open die process; the product is not completely covered as the dies are shaping it. This open die process is commonly used for large parts, like shafts and sleeves.

The most common impression die forging, which is how most forging production is done, has two dies that are brought together. The work in progress undergoes plastic deformation until the sides touch the die sidewalls. Then a material called flash is flowed outside the die. When the flash cools it becomes part of the form, completely filling the die.

Upset forgings are widely used when making the heads of bolts and fasteners. Then there is roll forging and swaging, but involving a rod or tube. In swaging the tube or rod is what eventually will take the shape of the die.

So what sort of metals can be forged? Just about all metals can be forged, but the most common metals include: alloy and stainless steels, aluminum, brass, copper, nickel and cobalt. Each metal has certain characteristics and forging importers will want to use what works best for the product at hand.

There are hundreds of forging sources and manufacturers for OEM supply. Let us help you find the very best metal contract manufacturing.