Benefits of Cold Form Processing for Metal Parts

Economically and efficiently produced durable materials add significant value to construction and fabrication projects. The processes that create the size and shape of metal components needed for unique projects should ensure that all pieces are identical and that each piece is as strong as the next. Cold form metal processing produces custom shapes of durable metal parts economically and to precise specifications.

Cold form processing basics

Cold forming metal (forcing it into a die while at room temperature) completes processing faster than hot forming it (heating, then forming) because there is no waiting for the metal to heat up. The pressure imposed by the forming process itself adds to the strength of the finished product, which is generally much closer to specifications than a hot form process can create. Consequently, cold form processing is much faster, less expensive and produces less waste than hot forming metal parts.

Additional benefits of cold form processing

Cold Forming can form complex shapes Cold materials form more substantial components because they do not have the fracture points or stress risers that are created in a machining process. The pressure applied to manipulate their shape actually makes them stronger than they were before the forming process because of the compaction of the grain structure.

Speed and volume Because the cold form system (raw material dimensions, die shape, etc.) is set for the existing project, part creation moves automatically from input to final product very quickly, completing the maximum number of items in the shortest possible time. Automation also ensures consistency of quality across product lines, so duplicate runs to replace flawed or insufficient parts are unnecessary. Since time is money, time saved is money saved.

Little or no waste Cold form processing ensures that an exactly correct volume of unprocessed metal is used to form each part, wasting none of the raw material and utilizing all of it to complete the part. The result is a fully formed and functional part crafted to the exact dimensions and specifications of the project.

Reduction or elimination of flaws When hot forming or injection molding parts an insufficient amount of raw material can result in a weak or malformed part. Injecting too much can cause malformations or produce "flash" (extraneous material out of the specifications for the part) which will need removal. Using raw metal in the appropriate shape and size for the project will reduce the incidence of flawed products. The cold forming feed process ensures that the correct amount of material is utilized for each part, wasting neither raw nor final product material.

If you have questions about cold form processing for metal parts contact your sales representative!