One of the best things about engineering is you can choose different processes to create parts. However, it is important to check each process closely to ensure you select the right one for your needs. What we want to do here is compare titanium forged and machined parts. We’ll discuss the differences, pros and cons, and which to choose in different situations. You should then be clearer on what to select for things like titanium flanges and other products.
Two very different processes
It is difficult to directly compare forging and machining because generally they are useful for different needs. The process to forge parts involves heating a piece of metal and then using pressure to shape it. You don’t remove any material here. Traditionally the pressure came from manually hammering. You can still use it today, but there are other options too such as machines with presses and punches.
Machining differs greatly because you physically remove material using cutting tools. You utilise a CNC machine to do this. All you need to do is create a design with a suitable computer program. The CNC then gives a series of instructions to cut out the part.
To compare titanium forged and machined parts you need to look at the pros and cons of each.
Forging
The major advantage with forged parts, particularly titanium flanges, is the process can make them stronger and more durable. The combination of heat and pressure can refine the grain structure of the metal to enhance these crucial properties. It also preserves the grain because there is no removal of material.
There are also other pros with forging. For example, it is better for the environment because there is no waste material. It is also fast and easily repeatable.
In terms of cons, there are two notable ones. The most crucial is the surface finish. Forging leaves parts with a rough surface, so it may be necessary to do secondary processing if it needs to be smooth and precise. That can increase the cost and production time.
The other drawback is there can be limitations on the size of products you can create. If you are considering titanium forged and machined parts, forging is best for smaller ones.
Machining
Easily the biggest benefit of machined parts is the accuracy. You can use a CNC machine to create precise titanium flanges and more even if they have complex designs with acute angles. The machining can produce internal threads and many other details. This method also results in a high quality surface finish. More importantly, it can be incredibly consistent.
Finally, the machining can produce identical parts every time. It uses the same computer file for the design and there is no chance of human error. So, the repeatability is fantastic.
The main downside of CNC is it takes time. While machining is faster than cutting parts manually, it can take time for a machine to create parts, even simple ones.
Another major concern is the amount of waste it generates. Even a simple machining project can result in a large amount of metal shavings and chips.
CNC machines are also complex and can have a multitude of moving parts. As a result, they generally need quite a lot of maintenance. Operators also need to keep a close eye on things like water, oil, and lubricant levels.
What to choose?
Hopefully now you are a little clearer on when you should choose titanium forged and machined parts. Forging is best if you need strong, durable products with higher stress resistance. Machining is better for complex items.
Interestingly, people often use both techniques. They can begin with forging to create the basic shape for the product, including titanium flanges. Machining can then follow up to add precise details and finish the surface.
Speak to us about titanium forged and machined parts
There are plenty of producers in the UK that offer forging and machining. What you need to do is choose an expert you can rely on. Brindley Metal can help you with that. We work with a number of specialists, so we can suggest someone who can produce the parts for you. More importantly, we can supply the quality materials you need to begin with.
So, contact us to discuss your needs.