Open die forging is a process of shaping metal parts in a way that maintains the grain structure of the metal, and enhances the strength and durability of the completed part. Open die forging is classified by the temperature at which the open die forging is performed: the steel is heated above the recrystallization temperature and gradually worked into the desired shape. Open die forging is often used to create rough shapes: blocks, rounds, spindles, but can also be used in more detailed forging operations, such as the creation of custom forged crankshafts. Forged parts are stronger and more durable than similar cast or machined parts.
Open Die Forging Manufacturers
Great Lakes Forge is an open die forging manufacturer and a producer of custom forged crankshafts. Great Lakes Forge is based in the Midwest and offers the shortest lead times in the forging industry. When your usual forging supplier can't make your turnaround, Great Lakes Forge is ready with decades of expertise and a large inventory of steel grades in stock.
Open Die Forging Process
This open die forging video by Great Lakes Forge demonstrates the open die forging process in forging a metal rectangle and a forged metal round. These basic forged metal shapes are then used by manufacturers to produce finished components that are stronger and more durable than standard metal components.
Open Die Forging vs Closed Die
Open die forging is a separate process from closed die forging, in which the metal is completely enclosed laterally within the dies. With open die forging the metal is never totally confined, and is often only confined on the top and bottom, as you can see in the video above. Alternative open die forging processes include hammer forging in which the heated metal is repeatedly struck to shape it -- similar to how blacksmiths worked with metal in centuries past, but in modern forges hammer forging is accomplished with large automated machinery capable of applying far more force than a human ever could. Ring forging is another method that makes use of automated machinery to forge metal into large rings. A wide variety of metal can be forged using the open die forging process, but the most common are dozens of variety of steel, categorized into stainless steel, carbon steel, and alloy steels. The choice of which kind of steel to use for forged parts depends on the particular characteristics of the steel and the needs of the finished products. Parts that require significant resistance to corrosion and will be regularly exposed to the elements, for example, often are forged from stainless steel due to it's corrosion-resistant properties.
