Aluminum hot forging involves heating the metal to allow for the metal forming process. To achieve good structural integrity, the forge must observe specific heating specifications and temperatures. At times, the mold needs to be preheated, and there are conditions and forming equipment for that. To make the aluminum forging process successful, here are things manufacturers need to consider.
Control the Pre-forging Heating
Aluminum involves hot forging; during the process, the aluminum blank is heated to a particular temperature. This helps do the following:
• Lessen the strength of aluminum limit b sigma
• Enhance mold ability
Note the greater the heating temperature, the greater the b sigma reduction, which lowers the force needed for the formation. Aluminum forging manufacturers ensure the temperature is high enough but moderate to avoid over heating the metal. The ideal aluminum forging temperatures range is limited; therefore, it’s vital to maintain the pre-forging heating levels.
Lubrication During Distortion
In the forging process, lubrication between the die and blank affects the die’s forging quality, composition, and durability. It means inadequate lubrication causes poor aluminum fluidity in the mold. However, if the lubrication is well done, it allows an easy flow of aluminum materials. In addition, the friction coefficient increases resistance, stops outflow and enhances the filling performance. Therefore, manufacturers should use the best lubrication setup to ensure forging has a suitable surface finish.
Selection of the Mold Material
The mold operates under high temperatures and experiences high deformation resistance and thermal strain in the forging process. Therefore the manufacturers must assess the mold tensile and temperature requirements. This will help them ensure the solidity, toughness, and hardness of mold meets manufacturing requirements.
Aluminum forging is a delicate process. Therefore, the manufacturer should be keen on the issues listed above.