Head forging

Head forging is a manufacturing process used to shape metal blanks into finished products with a specific shape and size, typically using mechanical force and heat. In head forging specifically, the process focuses on forming the head or top portion of a component, such as bolts, screws, nails, or other fasteners.

Here’s an overview of the head forging process:

1. Selection of Raw Material: The process begins with the selection of suitable raw material, usually metal rods or wire stock, that meets the required specifications for the final product.
2. Heating: The raw material is heated to a specific temperature in a furnace to make it more malleable and easier to shape. The temperature required for forging depends on the type of metal being used and its properties.
3. Forming: Once the metal is heated to the appropriate temperature, it is placed in a forging die, which is a tool or mold that defines the shape of the final product. The die typically consists of two halves, between which the heated metal is placed. A mechanical press or hammer applies force to deform the metal and shape it according to the contours of the die.
4. Trimming: After the forging operation, excess material, known as flash, may be present around the edges of the formed head. This flash is removed through a trimming process to achieve the final desired dimensions and appearance of the head.
5. Cooling and Finishing: Once the forging and trimming processes are complete, the forged components are allowed to cool to room temperature. Depending on the application and requirements, additional finishing operations such as shot blasting, machining, or surface treatment may be performed to improve the surface finish and dimensional accuracy of the heads.