Characteristics of rotary forging as an advanced manufacturing tool

Modern manufacturing requirements demand short lead times and cost effective flexible production. This paper describes how the incremental deformation process known as rotary forging is able to meet these needs. Fundamentally important process developments are presented and discussed. The nature of incremental deformation is introduced and the types of rotary forging systems explained. Tooling factors, state-of-the-art machine design and processing actions are included. Examples of some applications and processing characteristics are provided to assist process understanding and possible take-up.