Precision forging is a refinement process that uses tight tolerances to shape metal to exceed industry standards, reducing waste and saving on materials and energy. However, it is costly and time-consuming, and reserved for high-quality products. Techniques such as metal temperature control, lubricants, and descaling may be used.
In the metal forging process, a variety of techniques are used, depending on the needs of the designed product and the stage of manufacturing the product. Often, forging is for the purpose of shaping the metal; however, some techniques go beyond shaping. Precision forging is more of a refinement process than a shaping process. When a product is near completion, precision forging is done using existing forging technology to perfect the product to the point that little or no further machining is required before using the product for its intended purpose. Usually, after the precision process, the finishing touches to the metal are done before shipping or using the product in another part of the manufacturing process.
There are various techniques used in precision forging to achieve the final specification required for the product. Such techniques often revolve around a tight forging tolerance with the goal of eliminating waste commonly conferred by the post-forging process. The results of the precision process usually form the metal to tolerances that exceed industry standards, subsequently eliminating the need for additional, wasteful machinery processes. Reducing that waste helps achieve overall savings for the manufacturer, though not savings on the particular product using precision forging. Other savings include creating less waste to dispose of using fewer materials and using fewer energy resources to complete the process.
Cost, however, is a major factor in precision forging, consisting of both time factors and human capital consumption to complete the process. Carrying out precision forging often requires a lot of time and experience in detailing the product, which can significantly increase the cost of the manufacturing process. Additional tooling techniques are used, so as to type machinery for longer periods that cannot be used elsewhere in the manufacturing process. Therefore, precision techniques are generally reserved for very high quality specification products to account for the additional manufacturing costs. Cases where significant scrap savings can be achieved are another consideration when deciding to use precision forging.
In addition to the current precision forging techniques and methods used, the process also takes into account further improvements applied to the product. Such improvements may include metal temperature control or preheating. Additionally, the process may involve applying lubricants or descaling to complete the precision process. Once the finishing touches are added, the product is ready to use or ship.
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