What is forging?

Forging is a permanent metal forming process, using force and pressure to reform metal into a predetermined shape. This is normally done when the metal is hot. As a direct result of the forging process, forgings have greater metallurgical soundness and increased mechanical properties. Click here to read more about Anchor Harvey's forging capabilities.

Why choose the forging process?

The Forging process increases mechanical properties. Forged components can withstand higher loads during use. Because the forging shape is predetermined and the forging dies are rigid, forged components can be produced to close tolerances. Close tolerances and shapes allow for cost reduction in machining time, material cost, and labor. Discover even more reasons to choose the forging process on our forging solutions page.

What is closed-die forging?

Closed die forging, also known as impression die forging, is one of the processes utilized to forge metal. The process of closed die forging involves hammering or pressing preformed metal blanks into a die that is shaped like the desired product. The piece is fully enclosed by the top and bottom dies, which forces the metal to completely conform to the die. Closed forging solutions differ from open die forging as the latter involves the die coming into contact with part of the piece at a time. Configurations made by the closed die forging process can be complex with tight tolerances, and the amount of possible shapes has very few limits. Closed die forging is the most cost-effective forging process for high-volume production. To learn more about Anchor Harvey's closed-die forging, visit our capabilities page.

Casting vs Forging: Why is forging better than casting?

Deciding between casting vs forging should be easy. Most metal components can be easily converted to the forging process with the forged result yielding a stronger component with no porosity and a better surface finish. To discover all the benefits of closed-die forging, and why you should convert from casting to forging, visit our resource page on converting castings to forgings.

Extrusion vs Forging: Why is forging better than extrusion aluminum?

By switching from extrusion to forged aluminum, we consistently obtain nearer net shapes to reduce machining and add more details and strength to a part. To discover all the benefits of closed-die forging, and why you should convert from extrusions to forging, visit our resource page on converting from extrusions to forgings.

Billet vs Forging: What's the difference?

Converting from billet to a forged near net shape product greatly reduces the amount of machine time. You can eliminate your roughing program, saving 40% of the time to machine the completed part. The forging process will also increase the mechanical properties of the material. To discover all the benefits of closed-die forging, and why you should convert from billet to forging, visit our resource page on converting from billet to forgings.

How does forging aluminum compare to steel?

When forging metal, the greatest benefit of converting from steel to aluminum is the reduced weight. Aluminum—including ductile iron, cold-rolled steel, and more—is ⅓ the density of steel. Because it’s so much lighter, you can change the geometry to get the strength in the needed area at ⅓ the total weight of the same steel product. To discover all the benefits of closed-die forging, and why you should convert from steel to forged aluminum, visit our resource page on converting from steel to aluminum forging.

Why use forging for high-pressure applications?

High-pressure applications, usually in the valve and fittings industry, are ideally fit for forged components due to the lack of porosity and use of corrosion and heat-resistant materials. You can learn more about the benefits of Anchor Harvey's forged aluminum components on our forging solutions page.

Why use forging for close-tolerance applications?

When machining to close-tolerance applications, starting with consistent near net shape forgings enhances part-to-part locations for faster output and less scrap. You can learn more about the benefits of Anchor Harvey's forged aluminum components on our forging solutions page.

What is the Splintered A forge mark?

The Anchor Harvey "A" is known as the "Splintered A" in the defense industry. Anchor Harvey is known for consistent, high-quality forged parts, and ordnance manufacturers look for the forge mark as a sign of a superior product. Visit our about page or discover The Anchor Harvey Way to see what sets us apart as makers of top-quality forged aluminum components.