Forging temperature is the temperature at which a metal becomes substantially more soft, but is lower than the melting temperature, such that it can be reshaped by forging. Bringing a metal to its forging temperature allows the metal's shape to be changed by applying a relatively small force, without creating cracks. For most metals, forging temperature is approximately 70% of the absolute temperature (usually measured in kelvins) of its melting point.[citation needed]

Selecting the maximum forging temperature allows metals to be forged more easily, lowering the forging pressure and thus the wear on metal-forming dies. The temperature at which a metal is forged can affect the homogeneity in microstructure and mechanical properties of forged products, which can highly affect the performance of products used in manufacturing.

MaterialForging TemperatureMelting point
CelsiusFahrenheit°C
Carbon steel - 0.50% carbon content12302246~1425-1540
Stainless steel (Nonmagnetic)11502102~1400-1530
Stainless steel (Magnetic)10952003~1400-1530
Nickel109520031453
Titanium95517511660
Copper90016521083
Brass (25 alloy types with varying ratios of copper and zinc)8151499~900-940
Commercial bronze (90% copper and 10% tin)900 to 419.531652 to 787.154~950
Aluminium300 - 480600 - 900660
Zinc419.53787.154420
Lead2577327
Iron137125001535
Tin231.93449.474232

See also

Notes