What is drop forge?

Drop forging is a metalworking process in which a heated metal bar is shaped under pressure using a die. It is the oldest and widely-used method for manufacturing metal parts with high strength and durability. The process involves a hammer, known as a drop hammer or power hammer, that is raised and then allowed to fall freely onto the metal piece, deforming it into the desired shape.

The drop forging process begins with a heated metal billet. This billet is usually made of steel or another alloy that has desirable mechanical properties. The billet is placed in the anvil of the drop hammer, and the die, which is a shaped cavity, is positioned under the hammer. When the hammer is released, it strikes the billet with force, causing the metal to flow and take the shape of the die. The process is repeated multiple times until the metal piece reaches the desired final shape and dimensions.

Drop forging offers several advantages over other metalworking processes. Firstly, it produces parts with excellent mechanical properties, including high strength, toughness, and wear resistance. This makes drop forged parts highly suitable for applications that require reliability and durability, such as automotive, construction, and aerospace industries. Additionally, the mechanical properties of drop forged parts are consistent and uniform, leading to reliable and predictable performance.

Another advantage of drop forging is its ability to achieve complex shapes with high dimensional accuracy. The pressure applied during the forging process ensures that the metal fills the entire die cavity, resulting in precise and intricate details on the finished part. As a result, drop forged parts require minimal further machining, reducing the overall production time and cost.

Overall, drop forging is a cost-effective and efficient method for producing high-quality metal parts. The process allows for the creation of strong and reliable components with complex shapes and excellent mechanical properties.