Aluminum is a lightweight metal. The lightweight characteristic of aluminum ensures that it is suitable for several methods of forging. Also, aluminum allows for the forging processes to forge the material in different shapes. Furthermore, the qualities of aluminum make it a vital metal for the aluminum forging factory. Aluminum forging factories use aluminum to forge parts that are applicable in various industries. Despite the vast benefits of aluminum, there are essential factors to consider while forging aluminum. Therefore, this article aims to inform you of 4 factors to consider when executing the aluminum hot forging process.
6 factors to consider when implementing the aluminum hot forging process
1. Dimensional tolerance
One of the most necessary elements to consider when executing the aluminum hot forging process is dimensional tolerance. Aluminum hot forging is not the same as cold aluminum forging. Aluminum hot forging requires less dimensional tolerance, while the aluminum cold forging process requires higher précised dimensional forging.
2. Flash
Aluminum hot forgings can be categorized into forgings without and with flash. The development of flash between small gaps and die halves should be avoided in the flashless forging. The key point to note is that flash formation is not preventable and predictable. Thus, during the aluminum hot forging process, it is essential to watch out for flash.
3. Cooling
An essential factor to look into during the aluminum hot forging process is the cooling process. Immense care should get applied during the cooling process to prevent warpage.
4. Deformation lubrication
The aluminum forging process involves the deformation of metal; thus, lubrication should be crucial. When a low amount of lubrication is used between the blank and the die, there will be high chances of friction. Friction present during the forging process can encourage fluidity of the mold chamber. Therefore, lubrication is essential in the aluminum forging process to prevent the formation of friction.
5. Dies
Different customers have different requirements. Thus the aluminum hot forging process dies should match the exact specification of the client. Additionally, toughness, good ductility, and enhanced hardness are essential to ensure that the dies are durable.
6. Pre-forging heating
Before the forging of aluminum metals, the metal is pre-heated. The reason for pre-forging is to enhance the metal’s plasticity. Furthermore, aluminum has a narrow temperature range; thus, careful considerations should be made during the pre-forging stage.
Merits of hot aluminum forging
- Aluminum is an easily manipulatable metal: The easy manipulation ensures that complex parts can be attained easily through the aluminum hot forging process.
- Attractive: Aluminum hot forging process enables the material flexibility in design, therefore, making it very attractive
- Not limited to surface finishings: Aluminum hot forging enables a wide range of surface finishings. That is, from sharp surface finishings to smooth surface finishings.
- Cost-effective: Aluminum hot forging is cost-effective because the exterior of the material does not need too much polishing..
Conclusion
Aluminum hot forging is essential to many industries such as aerospace, medical, automotive, and so many more. Thus, all the processes involved in hot aluminum forging should be executed effectively to prevent any procedures that may result in faulty parts.
