Typical Blank Preparation Methods for Pre-Forging
Pre-forging refers to the manufacturing process of changing a raw material into a semi-finished product with a certain shape and size through forging before further processing and manufacturing. This process requires different forming methods in the raw material blank preparation process depending on the shape of the product and the characteristics of the material. Here are some of the most common blank preparation methods for pre-forging.
Hammer Forging
Hammer forging is one of the oldest and most common pre-forging processes. During the process, a piece of raw material is placed between two dies, which are two pieces of hardened steel. Then a hammer, usually operated by a mechanized power source, is used to repeatedly strike the raw material and shape it into the form of the die. This process is usually used for simple shapes and is the most economical for materials that require a harder surface, such as forging steel.
Roll Forging
Roll forging is another popular pre-forging process. During this process, a piece of heated raw material is repeatedly run through a set of rollers to shape it into the desired form. This process is employed for large pieces, as it allows a greater degree of control than hammer forging.
Swaging and Upsetting
Swaging and upsetting are two pre-forging processes that use a mechanical or hydraulic force to modify a piece of work material to the desired shape. In swaging, the shaping is done by a swage, which moves the material into the desired shape by pressing it through the swage. In the upsetting process, a ram is used to push the material upward to increase its size, giving the part its desired shape.
Drop Forging
Drop forging is a pre-forging process that uses a hammer or press to shape the material into a desired shape. During this process, the material is placed between two dies, as in hammer forging, and, when the die is activated, the material is stamped or pressed into the desired form. This process is ideal for large parts that require a high degree of precision and is especially useful for complex shapes like those found in automotive parts.
Extrusion
Extrusion is a pre-forging process that shapes the material by forcing it through a die. This process is most often used for materials that require a large amount of shape change, such as aluminum. The process is also used for products with a narrow cross section, such as screws and bolts.
These are the most common pre-forging blank preparation methods. By understanding each process and what it is best for, you can be sure that the pre-forging process will result in the parts you need with the strength and quality that is required.
