Metal forging is a collective of forming processes where a billet or workpiece undergoes plastic deformation between two dies or tooling, all under the application of compression force. While forging can occur across various temperature ranges, including hot, cold, warm, and isothermal, the most prevalent form involves working with a workpiece above its re-crystallization temperature. In the realm of metal manufacturing, forging stands as one of the most pivotal metal-forming processes, particularly in the production of iron and steel.
The Ancient Craft Evolved:
Tracing its roots back to around 4000 B.C., forging, one of the oldest and most impactful metallurgical procedures, initially served to craft jewelry, coins, and assorted utensils by manually pounding metal with stone tools. In the modern era, the essence of forging remains true to its origins, yet the strong arm and hammer have given way to high-powered hammers and mechanical presses, while tool steel dies have taken the place of the anvil.
Applications and Strength:
In contemporary forging, turbine rotors, gears, bolts and rivets, cutlery, hand tools, structural components for machines, aviation, railways, and various transportation equipment find their genesis. Forged objects stand out for their exceptional strength and toughness, attributed to the controlled metal flow and grain structure of the material. This makes them particularly reliable for applications that demand heightened strength and resilience.
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