Forging is one of the oldest known metalworking methods. Traditionally, blacksmiths carried out forging with a hammer and anvil, although significant progress was made in the 12th century. The forge or forge has evolved over the centuries to become highly detailed process equipment to meet the needs of today's industry.
Forging provides the formation of metal using localized compressive forces - hammer or punch impact. Forged parts can range in weight from less than half a kilogram to hundreds of tons. Forging has been carried out by blacksmiths for thousands of years. Traditional products were tableware, hand tools, edged weapons, as well as jewelry, architectural and decorative elements such as forged leaves , balusters, fireplace sets, wrought iron handles and wrought iron furniture.
Modern forged products have a more sophisticated design and graceful shapes. Nowadays, industrial forging is carried out using presses or hammers, which are driven by compressed air, electricity, hydraulics or steam. In art forges, hydraulic presses are used. Blacksmithing requires significant capital expenditures for equipment, tools and highly skilled personnel. In the case of hot forging, a high temperature furnace is required to heat the ingots or billets.
Most forging operations use metal forming molds, which must be precise in order to shape the workpiece correctly, as well as withstand tremendous impact forces. Products made in 3D format are very interesting. Currently, forging is used by designers in the creation of modern interiors to give a home a stylish individual look.
