Forging was the first of the indirect compression-type process and it is probably the oldest method of metal forming. It involves the application of a compressive stress, which exceeds the flow stress of the metal. The stress can either be applied quickly or slowly. The process can be carried out hot or cold, choice of temperature being decided by such factors as whether ease and cheapness of deformation, production of certain mechanical properties or surface finish is the overriding factor.
There are two kinds of forging process, impact forging and press forging. In the former, the load is applied by impact, and deformation takes place over a very short time. Press forging, on the other hand, involves the gradual build up of pressure to cause the metal to yield. The time of application is relatively long. Over 90% of forging processes are hot.
Category Archives: Materials
High Temperature Materials
The subject of high temperature materials is a very broad topic indeed. When a material is used at elevated temperatures, its strength, as reflected in tensile strength, stress rupture life, or fatigue life, is of prime importance.
Currently, there are three main categories of superalloys that include iron (iron nickel)-based, nickel-based, and cobalt-based alloys.
Silicon Carbide (SiC): Part One
Originally produced using a high temperature electro-chemical reaction of sand and carbon, silicon carbide is recognized as one of the most promising structural materials due to its excellent high temperature strength, good oxidation, and thermal shock resistance to name just a few advantages.
The secret of these excellent attributes lies in the composition of the material which is composed of tetrahedra of carbon and silicone atoms which inherently display extremely strong bonds within the crystal lattice.