Forgings Around Us
Where steel and aluminium forgings are used
On the way to work, we cross a bridge, pass a tractor and see a forklift unloading a truck. We notice the vehicles, the structure and the load. The small metal components that connect assemblies and transmit forces usually go unnoticed.
Some of those components are forgings. They may be hidden inside a drivetrain, connect structural elements or form part of a working machine. Their role becomes clear under load: when a joint must hold, a mechanism must transmit movement or a component must repeat the same motion thousands of times.
Where are forgings used?
Forgings are metal components shaped by compressive forces or blows. Steel and aluminium forgings are used in vehicles, mechanical engineering, lifting systems, agricultural machinery and structural assemblies. They often serve as connecting, drive or supporting components; the material and design depend on the job each part must perform.
Inside vehicles, they transmit movement and loads
Turning the steering wheel or accelerating sets a chain of mechanical components in motion. Common automotive forging applications include steering and drivetrain components, shafts and forged blanks for gears. Final production may also involve heat treatment and machining.
These components experience repeated loads and sometimes impacts. Material, geometry, manufacturing process and inspection therefore need to be considered together. Even for a small production run or a specialist mobility project, the first question is what the component will actually do in service.
On a bridge, a small connection can matter
We usually admire a bridge as a complete structure. Its operation also depends on many less visible connections. Forged connecting elements, pins and other structural parts are possible solutions where specified by the design.
A connection involves more than its external shape. The designer must understand the loads, installation and operating environment. These determine requirements for material, dimensions, surface protection and quality documentation. Structural systems, roads and bridges are among the sectors covered by Extra Forge's manufacturing programme.
In warehouses and workshops, they help transfer forces
A forklift raises a pallet, lifting equipment moves a load and a clamping mechanism holds a workpiece in position. In such equipment, forgings can serve as connecting, clamping or other force-transmitting components.
Load capacity comes from the design of the complete assembly and verified product properties. The fact that a part is forged does not establish its capacity on its own. Agreed material, delivery condition, critical dimensions, inspections and traceability are therefore central to supply.
In the field, they work through impacts and changing loads
Agricultural machinery rarely works in uniform conditions. The ground changes, implements meet resistance and drive components transmit varying forces. Typical forging applications include levers, connecting parts and drivetrain components.
When choosing steel and processing routes, we consider whether wear, toughness, fatigue or a combination of these requirements matters most. A suitable solution starts with the intended use. Parts with the same shape may need different materials or delivery conditions for different tasks.
For lightweight structures, aluminium comes into focus
Not every forged component is steel. Where low mass matters, aluminium forgings may be a suitable choice. They can be found in mobility projects, machinery, mounting systems and shading systems, for example as brackets and mechanical connections.
Aluminium requires an appropriate alloy and material condition, with geometry, loads and surface protection taken into account. At Extra Forge, we forge alloys 6082, 7075, 2014 and 2017. The choice for each component is agreed against the drawing requirements and intended application.
In process equipment, resistance to the environment matters
A valve, fitting or connecting part in process equipment may be exposed to moisture, cleaning agents or another process medium. Corrosion resistance matters alongside mechanical properties in these applications.
Stainless steel forgings are among the options. Our programme includes grades 1.4301 and 1.4571; suitability depends on the medium, temperature and product requirements. Our article on stainless steel selection for forging explains the differences in more detail.
Why the manufacturing process matters
In closed-die forging, compressive forces or blows shape the material inside a die. In hot forging, the material is heated beforehand but remains solid during forming. Its shape develops as the material flows within the die.
Properly designed forging can produce favourable grain flow and support the required mechanical properties. The result also depends on material, geometry, heat treatment and final processing. Reviewing the drawing is therefore an important part of preparing any new forging.
From Maribor into a wide range of technical assemblies
At Extra Forge in Maribor, Slovenia, we manufacture steel and aluminium forgings to customers' drawings in small and medium batches. Our programme covers steel forgings up to 4 kg net weight and aluminium forgings up to 3 kg net weight.
For each project, we coordinate tooling, forging and the required subsequent processing. Heat treatment, machining and surface protection can form part of the agreed scope of supply, including through qualified partners. Customers can therefore specify the required delivery condition from the initial enquiry.
Frequently asked questions about forgings
What is a forging?
A forging is a metal product or blank made by deforming material with compressive forces or blows. In closed-die forging, the tool or die defines its shape.
Are forgings always made from steel?
No. Aluminium forgings are also common. Material selection depends on loads, weight, operating environment and the required final processing.
Is a forging already a finished product?
It can be a finished product or a blank for further processing. The need for machining, heat treatment or surface protection depends on the drawing and agreed delivery condition.
Where will your next forging work?
Send us a drawing or 3D model, material, quantity and a short description of the application. Include critical dimensions, loads and processing and inspection requirements. Together, we can assess forging feasibility and prepare a quotation for your project.
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