Steel Forging Process
Steel Forging Process for Industrial Components
Milwaukee ForgeTech manufactures custom forged steel components using hammer forging and press forging. These processes produce parts that perform reliably under high loads, repeated stress, and demanding operating conditions.
We produce carbon and alloy steel forgings for industrial equipment, supporting short- to medium-volume production with part weights ranging from approximately 2 to 100 pounds.
If you have a drawing or specification, request a quote or upload your file to get started.
What Is Steel Forging?
Steel forging is a manufacturing process in which heated steel is shaped under compressive force using hammers or presses. The process uses dies to shape metal into defined geometries for high-load and high-wear environments.
Closed-die forging, also called impression-die forging, uses dies machined to the shape of the final component. The heated steel is placed between the dies, and force is applied using a hammer or press, causing the material to flow into the die cavity and form the part.
This process is commonly used for components that must perform under high stress and repeated loading.
Forging Methods
Milwaukee ForgeTech uses multiple forging methods to match part geometry, production requirements, and performance needs.
Hammer forging shapes heated steel using repeated blows. It is well suited for short- to medium-volume production and parts with more complex geometries.
Press forging uses controlled compressive force and precision-machined dies to form parts to the required geometry. This process is commonly used for components that must perform in higher-stress environments and require tighter tolerances, often in higher-volume production.
Steel Grades Used in Forging
Milwaukee ForgeTech produces forged components from carbon and alloy steels. Material selection depends on load conditions, wear, and required service life. Material selection and heat treatment are determined based on customer specifications and application requirements.
Common alloy steels used in forging include grades such as 4140 and 8620, which are selected based on how a component is used and where performance is required.
4140 Alloy Steel
4140 is a chromium-molybdenum alloy steel commonly used when strength and toughness are required throughout the entire part.
through-hardenable
high strength and fatigue resistance
suitable for load-bearing components
Typical uses include shafts, axles, and components under continuous load.
8620 Alloy Steel
8620 is a nickel-chromium-molybdenum alloy steel commonly used for case-hardened components.
designed for carburizing
hard, wear-resistant surface after heat treatment
tough internal core
Typical uses include gears, pinions, and components with repeated surface contact.
4140 vs 8620
4140 is typically selected when strength is required throughout the entire component.
8620 is selected when the component requires a wear-resistant surface and a tougher core to absorb load and impact.
Heat Treatment and Carburizing
Milwaukee ForgeTech supports heat treatment and metallurgical services as part of its forging capabilities.
Heat treatment is used to achieve the required mechanical properties in forged steel components.
What Is Carburizing?
Carburizing is a case hardening process commonly used with low-carbon alloy steels such as 8620.
In this process:
the steel is heated in a carbon-rich environment
carbon diffuses into the surface of the part
the part is then quenched
This produces:
a hard outer surface for wear resistance
a tough core for impact and load resistance
Carburizing is commonly used for components such as gears and shafts that experience repeated contact and wear.
Carburizing vs. Through Hardening
Carburizing is used when a component requires surface hardness and core toughness.
Through hardening (such as with steels like 4140) is used when consistent strength is required throughout the entire part.
The correct approach depends on how the component is loaded, where wear occurs, and the required service life.
Why Steel Forging Is Used
Steel forging is used when components must perform reliably under:
high loads
repeated stress and fatigue
impact and vibration
demanding operating conditions
Forged components are commonly used in construction equipment, mining equipment, industrial machinery, and industrial power equipment.
Materials and Production Capabilities
Milwaukee ForgeTech produces forged components using hammer and press forging with closed-impression dies.
Capabilities include:
forging weights from approximately 2 to 100 pounds
short- to medium-volume production
custom die design and engineering support
We also support secondary processes such as machining, heat treatment, and finishing.
Beyond the Forging Process
In addition to forging, many components require machining, heat treatment, finishing, coating, plating, inspection, or inventory support before they are ready for production use.
Milwaukee ForgeTech can help manage these additional manufacturing services to simplify sourcing and support the delivery of finished components from a single trusted partner.
By coordinating multiple stages of production through a single point of contact, we help streamline the path from raw material to finished component.
Request a Quote
If you are evaluating the steel forging process for your components, Milwaukee ForgeTech can help.
Send us your drawings or specifications and our engineers will review your project and recommend the appropriate forging method and material.