In this forging process deformation is achieved by the simultaneous action of four tools mounted at right angles to each other in a robust forging box and mechanically driven by eccentric shafts which impart a rapid short-stroke forging action. The position of the tools can be adjusted to accommodate a wide range of input sizes and forging reduction. Opposing pairs of tools can be set independently to permit the production of rectangular sections, as well as rounds and squares, and a mandrel facility enables hollow sections to be forged.

Advantages

The rapid simultaneous action of the four forging hammers subjects the work-piece to a high rate of deformation under uniform compressive stressing and, with appropriate control of operating parameters, an optimum forging temperature range can be maintained by kinetic heating. Ingot surface defects are, therefore, unlikely to propagate during forging and a high reduction can be achieved in one heat with little risk of surface cracking or center bursting even when processing materials of limited hot ductility and a very narrow forging temperature range. The potential improvements in surface quality, together with the inbuilt precision forging capability, lead to reduced machining allowances and thereby improve yields. Additionally, the total control and reproducibility of the GFM process ensures optimum metallurgical consistency.

Forged Bar Production Sizes

• Round 45 mm (1 3/4") dia min 600 mm (20") dia max

• Square 50 mm (2") min 355 mm (14") max

• Slab Upwards from 20 mm (3/4") - 75mm (3") 

HOWCO wish to acknowledge and thank ALLVAC Ltd. for their contribution towards the GFM forging process information and photograph illustrating SXP 65 GFM Precision Rotary Forge.