Due to its ability to resist heat and corrosion, stainless steel is frequently used in forging. The most common types of stainless steel utilized in forging are 304/304L, 316/316L, and ferritic. 304/304L is easy to forge, but it does require higher forging temperatures when compared to other austenitic stainless steel options. 316/316L stainless steel is an excellent option when certain types of corrosion are a concern, as it contains molybdenum.
While these options are very commonly used in stainless steel forging, all steel grades have different properties with their own unique strengths. The forging process often enhances the beneficial properties for most steels.
Industrial Advantages of Steel Forgings
Some of the greatest benefits offered by stainless steel are its corrosion and heat resistances. The forging process further increases the strength and durability of stainless steel, making forged parts ideal for use in harsh environments. Forging can create parts that are much stronger than parts created by other processes, such as machining or casting. This is because the grain flow created by forging follows the shape of the workpiece, thus increasing its strength.
There are four different grades of stainless steel, each offering different benefits:
- Austenitic. This grade is non-magnetic and has good cryogenic toughness. It also has the highest impact strength out of all four grades.
- Martensitic. This grade of stainless steel is highly resistant to pitting corrosion and is very strong.
- Precipitation hardening. This grade is fairly strong and tough, with a good fatigue life.
- Duplex. With good toughness at room temperature, this grade is also strong and resistant to corrosion.
At Cornell Forge, we frequently forge 303 stainless steel. We are able to save a great deal of money in material costs because we can provide a more near-net shape part. This typically reduces the level of secondary machining required, saving costs on expensive stainless steel.
Common Applications
Stainless steel forgings are incredibly strong and resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for use in a versatile range of industries. Some common applications include:
- Agriculture, construction, and off-highway. Forging can be used to construct parts for any type of outdoor equipment that needs to withstand harsh environments.
- Hand tools. Forged hand tools are generally stronger and more durable than tools which have been cast.
- Sports and recreation. Stainless steel forgings are often used to create sports equipment such as golf clubs, or recreational equipment such as garden tools.
- Oil. Stainless steel forgings are frequently used to fabricate special application wrenches used in the oil industry.
- Rail. The strength and durability offered by forged parts makes them ideal for use in railways.
- Firearms and defense. Stainless steel forgings may be used to manufacture gun components and missile guidance systems.
- Aerospace. The strength and versatility of stainless steel forgings makes them ideal for use as parts in the aerospace industry.
- Gear box. Stainless steel forgings are highly versatile and can be used to create a variety of durable gear parts.
- Medical tools. The highly corrosion-resistant nature of forged stainless steel components makes them ideal for use in the medical industry, where forged items may go through repeated sterilization. For example, many surgical tools are forged.
- Marine. May be used for fasteners including nuts, bolts, and screws. Corrosion resistance also makes stainless steel forging ideal for marine applications such as pliers.
In addition to these common applications, there are a number of different types of stainless steel forgings. At Cornell Forge, some of our stainless steel forgings include:
- Brackets
- Gears
- Levers
- Sprockets
- Spindles
- Pinions
- Wheel hubs
We create a wide range of stainless steel products for use in a variety of different industries and applications. Some of our product offerings include:
- Fittings
- Gear blanks
- Gun components
- Rail components
- Stainless steel golf clubs
- Refrigeration components
- Valve bodies
Contact the Forging Experts at Cornell Forge
Stainless steel forging is an excellent way to enhance the natural strengths of stainless steel while saving money on material costs. At Cornell Forge, we are proud to offer a wide range of stainless steel forgings to be used in myriad industries.
To learn more about what we can do to assist you in your next project, contact us or request your quote today.