A large number of new forging processes and technologies have been developed in the field of aluminum and aluminum alloy forging technology, such as liquid forging, semi-solid forging, isothermal forging, powder forging, multi-directional forging, non inclined precision forging, segmented forging, and sleeve forging, which have played a serious role in simplifying processes, reducing procedures, saving energy consumption, expanding quality, increasing specifications, improving quality and consumption efficiency, maintaining the environment, reducing labor intensity, and improving economic benefits. Aluminum industry indicates that specialized computer software provides reliable guarantees for controlling key process parameters such as forging temperature, forging pressure, degree of deformation (under pressure), and process lubrication, as well as controlling product size, internal structure, mechanical properties, etc.
The design and manufacturing of forging is the key to aluminum alloy forging technology. The CAD/CAM/CAE system for forgings has become very mature and advanced. In the United States, CAD/CAM/CAE systems are being replaced by CIM (Computer Integrated Manufacturing). CIM includes complete technology, computer technology, CAD/CAM/CAE technology, robots, expert systems, machining plans, control systems, and automatic material handling, providing conditions for the optimization design and process improvement of die forgings. Aluminum industry states that in the automotive industry, suspending the design and process optimization of components such as front beams, sheep horns, wheel hubs, and crankshafts can reduce the weight of sheep horns by 15%, wheel hubs by 30%, and crankshafts by 20% after optimization design, greatly improving consumption efficiency and reducing energy consumption.
