Forging is a highly applicable manufacturing technique. There are numerous forging applications from the forged gear used in ship construction, the automobile and electric-component manufacturing sector, and forged car parts. The high range of applicability can be attributed to the availability of a wide range of forging techniques. The presence of several forging equipment also comes in handy.
Types of forging equipment
Below are some of the main equipment used in forging;
1. Hammer and anvil
This is one of the vital equipment used in forging. The hammer is used to deliver the force used for deforming the metal. The hammer is usually raised and dopped or propelled into the workpiece. The force applied to the workpiece causes it to get deformed and adapt the shape and form of the die design. The workpiece is usually placed in the die, between the hammer and the anvil.
Therefore, when the metal is struck, it starts to take the shape of the die. The hammers usually differ from one type of forging machine to the next. However, the difference is not usually that significant as it is mainly based on the powering technique. Some hammers are powered by hydraulic energy, while others are mechanically or pneumatically powered.
On the other hand, the anvil is where the metal piece lies as the hammer strikes it. It usually consists of a large block of metal with a flattened top surface. The metal is mainly forged or cast steel.
2. The die
A die is a pre-shaped tool that works with the press to manipulate a workpiece into a desired shape and size. The die is usually designed depending on the design provided by a client or based on the end product’s design. Therefore, it is critical equipment in forging as it makes the designing or production process possible. The die is usually designed with caution and precision, as any mistakes could significantly influence the forging process. Mistakes in the die design could also result in a lot of financial losses.
Different types of dies can be used in forging. Some of these types are; closed and open dies.
3. The power mechanism
The role of the power mechanism is to facilitate the movement of the hammer. As mentioned above, there are three types of power mechanisms that can be used in forging machines. They are; mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic power. The manufacturer and the desired outcome usually determine the type of power mechanism used.
4. Lubricant
While the lubricant is not a typical form of equipment, it is a significant part of the forging process. The role of the lubricant may differ depending on the forging technique. Regardless, the standard roles of the lubricant are to allow the metal piece to slide on the die and cool it during the forging process.
Conclusion
Note that the type of equipment used in forging may differ depending on the forging technique. For instance, in some forging techniques, presses are used in the place of dies. Gear produced by forging is known for its superior strength, duality, and effectiveness.
