Aluminum forging producers shape aluminum by pounding, pressing or squeezing it. People have forged one type of metal or another for hundreds of years (think village blacksmith). Today, aluminum forging vendors use very high pressure to create superior aluminum parts. If your company needs precisely shaped and sized aluminum parts or components at affordable prices, look into aluminum forging.

Be aware that there are several types of general aluminum forgings. The shape and size of your company's end product will determine the forging method used. New technologies, including computers to monitor the aluminum forming process, now result in high-quality aluminum forge products. If your business needs strong aluminum products with precise specifications, aluminum forging is the way to go. As you search for a vendor, remember the following:

1. You can find a wealth of information about aluminum forging producers online.

2. Different aluminum forging methods are recommended for different products.

3. Not all foundries produce precision aluminum forgings.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Investigate the websites of aluminum forging producers

Most of the leading aluminum forging vendors have websites. Check them for information on capacity, forging method and market experience. Request information, including price quotes, from several suppliers for comparison.

I recommend: Check the selection of aluminum forgings methods at Aluminum Precision Products. They include open- and closed-die, precision and convention aluminum forging. Note the range of markets for the products from Brass Aluminum Forging: military components, valves, automotive and bicycle parts and several more.

Determine the right aluminum forging method for your company's needs

General aluminum forging methods include cold, closed die, open die and seamless rolled ring. Once you determine the process that you need, find a foundry that specializes in that method.

I recommend: Choose Queen City Forging for hot aluminum forging projects. The metal workers apply infrared heating to aluminum forgings to enhance the metal's physical qualities. Weldaloy Products offers three different forging methods, open- and closed-die and rolled ring.

Find a provider for aluminum aerospace forgings

If your company supplies the aerospace industry, your components need to meet precise specifications. Use a vendor that offers cold forging or seamless rolled ring forging. Both processes achieve exceptional strength and precise tolerances and yield large quantities at affordable prices.

I recommend: Go to All Metals & Forge for your company's aerospace needs. Their work is AS 9100 certified. Check the selection of products for the aerospace industry available from Aviation Metals. It will make custom forgings as well.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Companies forging aluminium often offer forging services for other metals and alloys. If your specifications don't require aluminum, investigate the qualities and cost factors of other metals.
• •  If your company has questions or needs additional information, contact the Forging Industry Association. FIA is a storehouse of information on the latest forging techniques and applications. Members adhere to strict regulations.