Did you know that fasteners can be fabricated through hot press forging? This blog will cover what exactly that is and why the process is used.
Forging is one of the oldest known metalworking processes. Originally done by a smith using a hammer and anvil, we have thankfully moved to more modern techniques. Today, industrial forging is done with presses. There are two types of presses, mechanical and hydraulic. Mechanical presses use cams, cranks and toggles to produce a fastener. Mechanical presses are faster than hydraulic ones. Hydraulic presses use fluid pressure and a piston to generate force. Hydraulic machinery, while slower, do offer greater flexibility and capacity.
The main advantage of producing a fastener through press forging is that the piece will be stronger than if it was machined or cast. This is because when a piece is forged, the internal grain deforms to follow the shape of the part. This creates a continuous grain, improving the piece’s strength.
Press forging applies a slow, uninterrupted force on a piece, differing from the quick impact of drop-hammer forging. This method is advantageous because it has the ability to deform the completed piece. While this method does take longer, the strength benefits outweigh the length of time needed. Press forging is also more economical than hammer forging, while also creating closer tolerances.
Press forging is especially useful when dealing with very large diameter fasteners. There is no limit to the size created, because there is no limit to the size of the press forging machinery. New techniques have led to a higher degree of mechanical integrity. And by limiting the oxidation to the outer layers of the fastener, micro cracking is reduced.
Please contact us today for any and all of your fastener needs.