What is open die forging?

Forging is the process of shaping metal through the application of appropriate forces on them. This forging process can be done even if the metal is cold or hot, but not when it is in the molten stage. There are different types of forging process, and open die forging is one of them. In open die forging a die is impacting onto a workpiece which is resting on a stable base called anvil. Hammers and anvils are used by blacksmiths for centuries for this forging process, hence it is also called smith forging. Open die forging is entirely different from closed die forging because in that forging process workpiece is not enclosed by the dies and the dies themselves are more like tools with simple shapes and profiles rather than resembling enclosed moulds.

The open die forging process It consists of deforming heated metal parts between a top die attached to a ram and a bottom die attached to a bolster, anvil, or hammer. The temperatures ranging from 500-degree Fahrenheit to 2400-degree Fahrenheit is used to work with the metal parts, and these metal parts can be configured into the desired shape by skillful pressing or hammering of the metal piece. In order to achieve tolerance for finished specifications, this process requires secondary machining and refining. Open die forging process is extremely beneficial. From simple to complex the parts created by open die forging includes discs, sleeves, rings, cylinders and shaft. The strength and grain structure of the finished product can be increased if the material is worked repeatedly throughout the process. Benefits of open die forging
> Better fatigue resistance > Continuous grain flow > Finer grain size > Improved micro-structure > Increased strength > Less material waste > Longer part life > Reduced chance of voids > Valuable cost savings