Forging

For specific applications and forging processes, the steels exhibit good toughness or high hardness, excellent hot wear resistance, and high thermal conductivity. Representing the entire product range, in addition to the standard steels Thermodur® 2343 EFS and Thermodur® 2344 EFS for demanding requirements, the following steels are highlighted:

Thermodur® 2365 EFS is the most sought-after tool steel worldwide for high-speed forging tools due to its high resistance to hot cracking, thermal conductivity, and heat resistance. This steel is specifically used in tools subjected to high temperatures, and Deutsche Edelstahlwerke offers a selected range of quenched or annealed steels for forging tools.

Thermodur® 2714 is a tough die steel with high temper resistance and through-hardening. Ideal for forging dies, especially large hammer and die press dies, thanks to its increased nickel content for impact toughness. Available in annealed or quenched state (1300 N/mm2).

Thermodur® 2999 EFS is a high-performance steel for the forging industry, specially developed for the hot forming of heavy metals. With a 5% molybdenum content, it exhibits high hot strength and wear resistance, extending the lifespan of the tools. Its excellent thermal conductivity across the entire operating temperature range makes it ideal for high-speed forging machines.

In open-die forging, non-die-forming tools are used, and the workpiece is shaped by a forging press or a long-stroke forging machine. In contrast, closed-die forging employs specially shaped tools such as impression dies and dies to shape the metal into precise forms. This process imparts the desired shape to metals through controlled pressure and impact. The tools must withstand extreme loads and high temperatures. Therefore, the choice of the right material is crucial and depends on various factors, such as the applied forging method, the metals used, temperature, and requirements for hardness, wear resistance, and toughness. 

Forging dies are customized tools used to shape the metal into the desired form. Die inserts are interchangeable components inserted into the dies to create specific patterns and details. Forging dies should exhibit the following outstanding properties to withstand numerous forging cycles while maintaining consistent quality:

• High hardness at forging temperature
• Good toughness properties at higher temperatures
• Adequate toughness to withstand rapid temperature changes
• Excellent wear resistance
• Good temper resistance to ensure consistent material properties over an extended production cycle