Cold forming

Cold forming refers to the deformation of a material below its recrystallisation temperature. In this process, the material is brought into the desired shape without producing any chips. The process enables high dimensional accuracy and very good material utilisation.

During cold forming, the material may undergo additional work hardening as a result of plastic deformation.

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Cold forming as an alternative to machining
Cold forming: Questions and answers

Cold forming as an alternative to machining

Cold forming is used when components are to be manufactured economically and precisely through non-cutting forming. For suitable components, it can be an alternative to machining processes such as turning or milling.

A key advantage lies in material utilisation: as cold forming involves reshaping the material rather than removing material by cutting, the raw material can be utilised very efficiently. At the same time, the process enables a high degree of dimensional accuracy. The grain flow of the material can follow the component geometry, whilst work hardening influences the mechanical properties.

Threads can also be produced without cutting by means of forming. Depending on the component and the manufacturing process, internal and external threads can be formed rather than produced by cutting. In this process, the material is displaced rather than removed.

“Not every turned part can be cold-formed. But for any suitable part, it’s worth asking the question.”

Volker Wolf

Commercial Managing Director, MN Kaltformteile

Cold forming: Questions and answers

What is cold forming?

In cold forming, a material is plastically deformed below its recrystallisation temperature. The process enables chipless forming with high material utilisation and dimensional accuracy.
What are the advantages of cold forming?

The key advantages include high material utilisation, chipless forming, and cost-effective production of large quantities. Furthermore, work hardening and a favourable grain flow can have a positive effect on the mechanical properties of the component.
Is cold forming an alternative to turning and milling?

Yes. For suitable components, cold forming can be a cost-effective alternative to machining processes such as turning or milling. Whether a changeover is advisable depends, amongst other things, on the geometry, material, tolerances and production volume.
Can threads be produced by cold forming?

Yes. Internal and external threads can be formed without cutting, depending on the component and the manufacturing process. In this process, the material is displaced to create the thread geometry rather than being removed by cutting.
Are chips produced during cold forming?

No chips are produced during the actual cold forming process, as the material is plastically deformed rather than removed by cutting. However, additional machining steps may be required for certain component geometries or requirements.

Cold forming

Cold forming as an alternative to machining

Cold forming: Questions and answers

What is cold forming?

What are the advantages of cold forming?

Is cold forming an alternative to turning and milling?

Can threads be produced by cold forming?

Are chips produced during cold forming?