Casting is quite an ancient process compared to forging. It was a technical advancement when swords were forged rather than just cast and sharpened. However, casting – especially machined castings – is still preferred when you have very large cross-sections for which forging would require an enormous amount of force. Both forging and machined castings are ideal industrial processes depending on the type of work that needs to be done.
Forging Versus Machined Casting
What is Forging?
Forging requires the metal to be exposed in extreme heat, then placed in dies and beaten by hammers or pressed with the use of a forging press. A massive force is used to mold the metal into a particular shape as required.Forging provides a better grain structure to provide stronger results. On the other hand, cast parts tend to be brittle in comparison. Forging also has its disadvantages. For instance, the process does leave residual stresses in the component, making it less accurate.
What are Machined Castings?
Machined castings require the removal of excess material from the forged or cast component, giving it the exact finish required to use the components. Machining from an immense block of metal is most expensive, but in most cases, leaves the end product durable.The most common machined products are machined aluminum because it can be processed faster and causes less wear on the tools and equipment. In general, the harder the material, the more expensive it is to complete the process.
Where to Get Machined Castings
At Ferralloy Inc., our skilled machinists can offer quality machined castings for wear components, valve bodies, casings, split castings, diffusers, impellers, and other specialty components that you deem important. Contact us today to learn more.