Today, aluminum forging companies and manufacturers have enjoyed steady growth due to the increasing demand for aluminum forged parts. The aluminum forging industry—which supplies the aerospace, automotive, construction, and defense industries—has grown considerably in recent years and is expected to continue growing steadily over the next decade.
Recent global market is thriving due to the growth of aluminum forging. Previously, this industry was limited by traditional methods of forming, but with the introduction of more advanced techniques such as deep drawing, spinning, and extrusion, aluminum forging has grown exponentially.
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What is Aluminum Forging?
Aluminum forging is a manufacturing process by which aluminum is shaped when it is subjected to compressive force. The grain structure of the aluminum changes so that the resulting product has a specific configuration desired by the manufacturer. As a result, the metal is hardened and much more potent than other machining, casting, or welding products.
Aluminum Forgings’ Manufacturing Process
Aluminum forging is a process that uses a mold to shape molten aluminum. Unlike casting, which melts the metal and pours it into a mold, forging is done by applying pressure to the metal in its solid form. However, the hot-forging process is most cost-effective for large parts weighing up to 25 tons.
Another way to work with aluminum is to cold forge it. In this process, a hammer or press forces the metal into shape while it’s still at room temperature, and then it gets heated to several hundred degrees Fahrenheit. This causes the metal crystal structure to adapt to the shape of the part, making it even more potent. Regardless of the process, aluminum forging can increase the strength and hardness of aluminum, making it useful for various purposes.
Is Aluminum Easy To Forge?
Aluminum is generally considered a good material for forging because it is relatively soft and malleable, making it easy to shape and form through the forging process. In addition, aluminum has a low melting point, making it easier to forge than other materials requiring higher forging temperatures.
There are several different types of forging processes that can be used to shape aluminum, including:
- Cold Forging: Cold forging, a type of metalworking, produces parts with improved surface finish and dimensions close to tolerance. Unlike many other forging processes, cold forging does not use heat but lower temperatures.
- Open die forging: The workpiece is placed between a pair of dies and deformed by the dies coming together to apply pressure to the workpiece.
- Roll forging: It is a process that creates seamless rings from flat sheets. A hole is punched in the metal, then the metal is rolled into a donut shape and squeezed—rings made by this method range from a few inches to 30 feet in diameter. A curved die is used instead of a flat die to form ring-shaped components.
- Closed die forging: In this closed die forging process, the workpiece is placed in a die that is closed around it, and pressure is applied to shape the workpiece.
Is Aluminum ideal for Forging?
Aluminum is a popular choice for forging because it is relatively easy to shape and form through the forging manufacturing process. It is relatively soft and ductile, making it easy to deform, and it has a low melting point, making it easier to forge than other materials requiring higher forging temperatures.
Aluminum is used in many products, from beverage cans and cookware to spacecraft. Its lightweight and excellent corrosion resistance make it worthwhile when those characteristics are essential. For example, it’s used in airplanes and cars because of its lightweight and resistance to rusting.
Aluminum is an excellent material for forging, but some applications call for different materials. The exact needs of a part—strength, durability, etc.—will decide which material best suits your needs.
What Are The Factors To Consider While Partnering With Aluminum Forging Companies?
It’s essential to work with manufacturers whose products you can trust and can count on to create your product or service as desired. There are several factors to consider when partnering with aluminum forging companies:
- Quality: A company’s track record is vital when deciding if they are the right supplier for you. Make sure to research the company and look at reviews to see if they have a history of producing high-quality products that meet your standards.
- Experience: Look for a company with expertise in producing the type of parts you need. This can ensure they are familiar with the necessary processes and have the expertise to deliver high-quality products.
- Technology and equipment: When you choose a supplier, look for someone who can provide the equipment and technology that best matches your needs. Consider the company’s equipment and technology, as this can impact the quality and efficiency of the forging process.
- Customer service: Consider the level of customer service the aluminum forging company provides, as you will likely be working closely with them on an ongoing basis.
- Certifications: Look for a company certified to industry standards, such as ISO 9001, as this can ensure they commit to quality.
- Capacity: Consider the company’s production capacity when considering an aluminum forging company to supply your business with promotional products. Ask what kind of volume the supplier can handle. This simple task can save you time and money in the long run.
- Lead times: The company’s lead time is one of the most important things to consider when choosing a forging parts supplier. Lead time refers to the time it takes for a supplier to deliver products, and if you have a deadline for your product, you’ll want to ensure that your supplier has enough time to meet your needs.
- Cost: When shopping for aluminum forging companies, it’s always a good idea to compare their prices to those of other companies. First, look at the big picture and check what you’re getting for your money. Are the production times and minimum orders competitive? Look at the company’s prices on standard products similar to what you have in mind. Don’t just compare list prices—compare the total cost of ownership, including shipping fees and applicable taxes. If everything seems competitive, ask a sales representative if any special discounts or promotions are available.
Zetwerk, the largest aluminum forging company in the USA, offers customized forging solutions to its clients. We supply aluminum forged components designed and engineered by highly skilled professionals. Our staff is committed to providing the best possible solutions for your requirements, helping you improve your products and processes with our forged aluminum solutions.