Breif introduction of aluminum forgings

·   High performance and strength
The forging process is used in applications where performance and strength are critical requirements. Forged aluminum components are commonly found at points of stress and shock. Pistons, gears and wheel spindles in high performance automobiles and aircraft are often made from forged aluminum.

·      Forged aluminum perfect for aerospace
The challenging and harsh environments in space necessitate structures that are strong and durable, but also lightweight. Forged aluminum’s low density relative to steel makes it an ideal candidate for aerospace applications.

·      Tools of the trade
Hammers, presses and up setters are the basic types of equipment used in the forging process. Hammers can apply a driving force of up to 50,000 pounds where presses can exert a force of up to 50,000 tons. Upsetters are basically a press used horizontally to increases the diameter of a work piece by compressing its length.

·       Mark of quality
"Forged" is the mark of quality in hand tools and hardware. Pliers, hammers, wrenches, garden implements and surgical tools are almost always produced through forging.

Open-die forging

Ideal for processing large pieces of aluminum, open die presses do not constrain the aluminum billet during the forging process and utilize flat dies free of precut profiles and designs. Aluminum blocks weighing up to 200,000 pounds and 80 feet in length can be open-die forged to create large aluminum components with optimal structural integrity. While welding and joining techniques are useful in creating large components, they cannot match the strength or durability of a forged part. Open-die forgings are limited only by the size of the starting stock.

Closed-die forging

Closed-die forging, also known as impression-die forging, can produce an almost limitless variety of shapes that range in weight from mere ounces to more than 25 tons. As the name implies, two or more dies containing impressions are brought together as forging stock undergoes plastic deformation. Because the dies restrict metal flow, this process can yield more complex shapes and closer tolerances than open-die forging. Impression-die forging accounts for the majority of aluminum forging production.

Rolled-ring forging

When industrial applications call for a high strength, circular cross section component, there is no match for rolled-ring forging. The process typically begins with an open-die forging to create a ring preform, shaped like a doughnut. Next, several rollers apply pressure on the preform until the desired wall thickness and height are achieved. Configurations can be flat, like a washer or feature heights of more than 80 inches. Rings can be rolled into numerous sizes, ranging from roller-bearing sleeves to large pressure vessels.

Professional racecar drivers know that forged aluminum wheels are a great choice for the punishing conditions of competitive racing. Built for speed and performance, forged wheels are extremely lightweight, very strong and exceptionally stiff. Forged aluminum wheels are found off the racetrack too.