Computer-Aided Design of Axisymmetric Hot Forging Dies

Summary

A system of programmes, for the design of axisymmetric hot forgings and dies, is described. The input to the system is a geometric description of the required as-machined part, from which the appropriate forging is designed on the basis of stored design rules and material files. Subsequently, the billet size, forging load, flash geometry and forging tolerances to BS 4114, are automatically determined.

The system utilizes standard die sets, with interchangeable inserts, the profile of which is added to the forging impression, and an assembly drawing of the die set is plotted out. Other outputs are drawings of the forging, detail drawings of the variable die components, and a co-ordinate listing to facilitate manual NC programming for manufacture of the die parts. A further programme can be utilized to design appropriate preforms for components if sufficient quantities are required to make this economically justifiable.