
In this process a slow continuous pressure is applied to the area to be
forged. The pressure extends deep into the material. Press forging can be
either cold or hot. Cold press forging is generally used on thin, annealed
materials, while a hot press forging is done on works such as locomotive
armor plating and heavy machinery. Cost wise, Press Forging is more
economical than hammer forging (except when low production is required) and
closer tolerances can be achieved. A greater quantity of the work done is
passed on to the workpiece. This way it differs from the hammer forging
operation, where most of the work is absorbed by the machine and foundation.
This production process is ideally suited for larger forgings, as there is
no limitation in the size of the machine.