Finkl Steel - Sorel produces forged bars sizes from 10 inches (255 mm) up to 36 inches (915 mm) in diameter in carbon and medium alloy steel grades.
Common grades of steel used include but are not limited to; 1018, 1020, 1030, 1035, 1045, 1055, 1070, 4130, 4140, 4145, 4150, 4320, 4330, 4330V, 4330Mod, 4340, 8620, 8630, 9310, A182 F22, A350 LF2, H13, SS410, 15-5PH, 17-4PH, etc. (PER AISI, SAE, ASTM as example).
Forging is the process of shaping metal using extreme forces. The standard mode of classification of forged metals is by the heat at which they were manipulated: cold, warm or hot. Hot forging is normally performed at about 1200 degrees, warm forging at 650-700 degrees centigrade and cold forging at room temperature.
Forging dates back to the 12th century, when hammers and anvils were used to shape metals for various purposes. Nowadays, industrial presses or hammers are the main tools, powered by compressed air, electricity, steam or hydraulics. Forging has the ability to create bars that are better than those machined or from cast steel. During the forging process, the grain of the metal is shifted to follow the contours of the shape of the steel. This can lead to improved strength characteristics and reduced brittleness.