High temperature alloy forging
High temperature alloy forging is a process by which metal parts are formed by compressing a heated blank - typically a disc, cylinder, tube or billet - between two different shaped dies. The dies are special tools that are designed to allow the metal to flow into the desired shape with the right amount of pressure and contact. The process of high temperature alloy forging is most commonly used when creating complex parts that require heavier tolerances, such as crankshafts, axles and other parts for airplanes and automobiles.
Typically, high temperature alloy forging is done at temperatures of around 2,000 to 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. This extremely high temperature softens the metal, making it easier to shape and form into the desired shape. At these temperatures, most metals become “plastic”, meaning they are malleable enough to take on a new shape. The process is often completed in several stages, with each type of alloy requiring a different temperature, pressure and technique in order to form properly.
The high temperature of forging usually results in a part that is very strong and durable. Forged parts also require less machining than parts formed with other processes, such as casting. This reduction in machining results in a significant reduction in cost and improved accuracy. Another major advantage of forging is that it produces parts with very low levels of stress, making them less prone to cracking or other forms of failure under extreme conditions.
When creating a forged part, it is important to understand the type of alloy and its limitations. Different metals require different procedures and temperatures to produce a high quality product. As mentioned before, the temperature used for forging is usually very high and can exceed 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. For example, stainless steel alloys require higher temperatures than alloy steels.
High temperature alloy forging is a process that produces strong, durable parts with excellent accuracy and low levels of manufacturing costs. It requires very high temperatures and specialized tools in order to shape the metal. When choosing the right process for a part, it’s important to consider the type of alloy, the desired functionality and the accuracy required. With the right understanding and knowledge, high temperature alloy forging can produce parts of exceptional quality.
