Some approaches on industrialization of steel thixoforging processes

Abstract

Based on several years of research, this paper presents some approaches on industrializing steel thixoforging processes. From a billet to a complex-shaped final part obtained in one single step, several key elements of the forming process are developed, such as heating system, transfer system, part and die design. A series of key characteristics is listed to obtain a viable application to high frequency industrialization of thixoforged parts. This work demonstrates that it is possible to use a classical forming press, to implement an automatic transfer of the semisolid slug and to thixoforge with a closed-die process. With a technological approach, a scientific topic is developed to identify generic parameters on thixoforged parts and lines.