What is Cold Forging?
Unlike hot forging, cold forging is the forging process that deforms metal below its recrystallization point – near to or at room temperature. Cold forging is a preferred forging method for softer metals, such as aluminum or copper. Compared to other metalworking processes, cold forging is less expensive and has the ability to produce forgings with less or no machining process.
In cold forging process, a heating procedure is saved, the metal is inserted into a die directy and then squeezed with a upper closed die. The workpiece is squeezed between two dies until it assumes the desired shape as expected. Deformation occurs at room temperature, causing a change in the size and shape of the metal. Note here that this forging method is volume specific and generally compliments the cold heading processes by adding more intricate shapes to the blank used in cold forging processes.
Despite the word “cold,” cold forging actually occurs at or near room temperature. One of the most common types of cold forging is a process called impression-die forging, where the metal is placed into a die that is attached to an anvil. The metal is then hit by a descending hammer and forced into the die. Depending on the product, the hammer may actually be dropped on the metal numerous times in a very rapid sequence.
Cold Forging for Copper, Brass & Bronze Alloys
Near net shape forging is most common when parts are forged without heating billet. Copper, brass & bronze alloys are common materials that can be cold forged depending on final shape. Lubrication of the parts being formed is critical to increase the life of the mating dies.
Advantages of Cold Forging for Copper, Brass & Bronze Alloys
Copper forging manufacturers may choose cold forging over hot forging for a number of reasons—since cold forged copper, brass or bronze parts require very little or no finishing work, that step of the fabrication process is often dispensable, which saves money. Cold forging is also less susceptible to contamination problems, and the final component features a better overall surface finish. Other benefits of cold forging include:
- Easier to impart directional properties
- Improved interchangeability
- Improved reproducibility
- Increased dimensional control
- Handles high stress and high die loads
- Produces net shape or near-net shape parts
To supply copper, brass & bronze forgings with the most economical forging method, CFS Forge has an individual cold forging shop as well. According to the shape of the part, our engineer will suggest the reasonable forging method for our customers. Most applied cold copper, brass or bronze forged products are like shaft, hub, ect. Any inquiry on cold copper, brass or bronze forging, pls let us know!