Types and design of machines for artistic forging

Universal machine for forging and bending BlackSmith MB21-30. Photo ForgingPRO

Undoubtedly, a person working in the field of metal processing must have not only physical abilities, as this type of activity involves workload, but also a volume of knowledge and experience. Also, it is worth noting that some types of work, such as the manufacture of elements and products using the cold forging method, cannot be done without special equipment. The list of equipment used by craftsmen includes:

• cold forging machines with manual or automatic control: snail, bend, wave, twister, flashlight, globe; Often this type of device includes mechanisms for bending profile pipes and rollers;
• tools and devices;
• universal devices that allow the production of elements of different configurations.

It is the latter type of equipment that this section is devoted to.

What types of units are there?

All manufactured products differ in their power source, and therefore they are divided into two types:

• manual;
• with electric drive.

Depending on the tasks assigned, the following types of products are distinguished:

Principles of creating elements through cold forging

The process is vaguely reminiscent of forging. With it, the metal does not heat up. Special machines are used for twisting and bending. To carry out manipulations, deep knowledge and extensive experience in this matter are not required. It is enough to master the work on the units and choose the right materials.

There are certain requirements for materials. The workpieces used must be plastic and have high viscosity. The best options are aluminum, copper and carbon steel.

The following can be used as blanks:

• rolled profile;
• pipes;
• metal strips of various cuts;
• square or round rods.

The shape can be any, depending on the specific device. Rods with a maximum diameter of 30 mm are suitable for cold forging. Most designs can only handle 12mm rods.

As for the form, it can be:

• round;
• hexagonal;
• square.

Manual mechanisms are accompanied by instructions that list all acceptable types of twigs.

Product functionality

The devices are designed to change the shape of twigs. Their main scope of application is as follows:

1. Mechanical engineering. Production of parts from pipe, sheet and round metal products.
2. Construction. Production of building elements of any complexity and appearance.
3. Furniture manufacturing. We are talking about decorating headset items with decorative elements.

How to choose a suitable design

Everyone's selection criteria are different. Experts recommend deciding on the main scope of application of the unit. The following nuances should not be overlooked:

1. Control method. Electrical and manual devices are available for sale. Manual ones are suitable for people who are just gaining experience in this matter. The best in terms of durability and reliability. Electrical accessories require certain knowledge and experience. They are characterized by high productivity. Work with large-sized profiles.
2. Functional. Products are produced highly specialized and universal. The latter are expensive and are not suitable for every master. If you only need to use a few functions, then you will simply have to overpay for the rest. Universal ones cannot boast of durability and quickly fail. Too difficult for beginners.
3. Manufacturer. It is of no small importance. It is better to give preference to well-known brands than to unfamiliar companies with a dubious reputation. Although talented craftsmen can create an instrument with their own hands at home from available materials. If the appearance is unsightly, then the functionality can be at a high level.
4. Price. There is no such thing as a budget product. If we are talking about a factory unit, then its price will exceed 10,000 rubles. If you find a budget option, then get ready to face unreliability.

Features of equipment operation

After purchasing and installing the machine, you need to prepare for its further use. There are a number of recommendations to follow:

1. The reliability of the fastening of the part in the grooves of the unit is checked.
2. The workpiece is preheated, which simplifies the work process.
3. You should not make sudden movements. Control at every stage is mandatory. Otherwise, the unit may fail.
4. All rotating components of the device are regularly lubricated with machine oil. This allows them to function smoothly and not wear out for a long time.
5. For work, it is worth purchasing personal protective equipment. The list includes glasses, gloves, and overalls.
6. Determine the correct sequence of actions. When processing metal, you must follow the established procedure.

DIY

Often, you need to make several parts yourself, and buying equipment specifically for this is simply not practical. However, this situation does not cause a big problem, since craftsmen have long posted on the Internet many methods for making machines on their own. It is quite difficult to assemble some models of universal devices with your own hands, but in principle it is possible.

Homemade gnik

Electric and manual machines for cold forging such as globe, snail, bender, flashlight and others are quite easy to make with your own hands. Such devices have a simpler structure than universal machines.

Tools and devices, especially conductors, in most cases are assembled for specific tasks that are assigned to each master.

Rating of high-quality electric cold forging machines

Master Universal 380V in Optima configuration

This forging machine from one of the best domestic manufacturers is produced by Optima. It is characterized by the presence of wide functionality and can be used for artistic forging. It is used for the manufacture of various elements, as well as decorative rolled products. Allows for unforging and twisting of profile pipes with a diameter of 40x40 mm and a cross-section of up to 22 mm. Operates from a network with a voltage of 380 V. Based on the review provided by the manufacturer, the power of the device is 2 kW. It is rightfully considered one of the best solutions on the market. The delivery set includes a number of auxiliary elements and fasteners, as well as step-by-step instructions for assembly and subsequent operation of the structure. Supplied assembled.

How much does the new product cost? The purchase will cost 363,000 rubles.

Master Universal 380V in Optima configuration

Advantages:

• equipment;
• optimal dimensions;
• ease of subsequent maintenance;
• multifunctionality;
• can be ordered online from the manufacturer’s branded online store;
• DIY installation is allowed;
• operational resource;
• build quality.

Flaws:

• high price.

Blacksmith TR3-25

This popular model belongs to the category of automated electric type machines. Designed for making baskets and other elements of any level of complexity. Recommended for use in forge shops and manufacturing plants, as well as factories. In addition to the high power of the electric motor, attention should be paid to the wide range of applications. The declared functionality is sufficient to solve any problems and carry out various operations. The high-strength metal housing is responsible for increased service life and operator safety. The declared power is 3 kW.

The average price of a pipe bending machine is 188,000 rubles.

Blacksmith TR3-25

Advantages:

• ease of use;
• there is protection against accidental pressing;
• access to internal nodes (special window);
• wide scope of application;
• production technology;
• ease of subsequent maintenance;
• equipment;
• manufacturer's warranty.

Flaws:

• high price.

Smart&solid V2-16

This popular model is designed for twisting torso and making curls, as well as weaving baskets. Used in blacksmithing. The design operates in 4 modes and can be used in mass production. The automatic mode, which is designed to make the master’s work as easy as possible, deserves special attention. To avoid mistakes when choosing, it should be noted that manual control is also allowed. To protect against accidental pressing, the manufacturer has installed a protective cover. There is an emergency shutdown button on the metal body. Can be used for work at home. Power – 1.5 kW.

Cost – 159,000 rubles.

Smart&solid V2-16

Advantages:

• wide scope of application;
• multifunctionality;
• there is protection against accidental pressing;
• emergency stop option;
• equipment;
• operational resource;
• build quality;
• positive reviews.

Flaws:

• high price.

Tools and equipment

Depending on which forging technology is selected, the list of equipment used changes. Machines for artistic forging:

• press;
• twister;
• snail;
• flashlight;
• globe;
• gnutik;
• wave.

This equipment is used when applying the cold processing method. When hot processing, the main devices and tools are:

• bugle;
• anvil;
• blacksmith hammer;
• forceps;
• hammers for artistic processing.

We must not forget about fuel for the forge. When heating metal, you need to take care of fire safety and good ventilation. A fire extinguisher must be present in the workshop, and you must work using protective equipment to avoid burns.

TOP of the best manual machines for cold forging

For forging baskets and lanterns

INtech TRSNsPK

This torsion bar machine is produced by the famous plant - Intech. A product from one of the best domestic manufacturers will be an excellent solution for the independent production of various elements. Equipped with a basket. High-quality hinges and welds are responsible for increased reliability. Paint is used as a protective coating for a body made of metal. Suitable for making strips up to 24x5 mm and squares 14x14 mm.

You can purchase the device at a price of 14,300 rubles.

INtech TRSNsPK

Advantages:

• multifunctionality;
• build quality;
• the presence of a protective coating;
• ease of use;
• minimal care;
• case material;
• compact sizes.

Flaws:

• none.

Stancraft Torsion Bar + Basket 110122

It is precisely this company that is best to buy equipment for those people who are interested in artistic forging. Based on the description provided by the manufacturer, the device is suitable for the manufacture of complex products with minimal effort. Key elements of the body are painted, which eliminates the risk of premature corrosion. Designed for creating volumetric products based on metal profiles.

How much does the device cost? The purchase will cost 7990 rubles.

Stancraft Torsion Bar + Basket 110122

Advantages:

• manufacturer's warranty;
• ease of aftercare;
• ease of use;
• minimal effort;
• wide scope of application;
• Independent modernization is allowed.

Flaws:

• none.

AURA TOOLS Basket 6500025

This model will be a great addition to a small workshop. Designed for the manufacture of various decorative elements at home. It is based on the method of twisting 4 workpieces around a shaft at the same time. Afterwards, assembly and welding of products is allowed. The maximum twisting area is 50 cm. One-sided release is noted.

Cost – 7200 rub.

AURA TOOLS Basket 6500025

Advantages:

• compact dimensions;
• build quality;
• the presence of a protective coating;
• ease of use;
• multifunctionality.

Flaws:

• not identified.

For cold forging – longitudinal torsion

Stalex PS14 100910

This inexpensive and practical twisting machine is designed for making homemade elements, torsioning strips and rods. To avoid mistakes when choosing, it should be noted that preheating of the material is not required. Can be used in small blacksmith shops. High-quality carbon steel is used to manufacture key elements. The delivery set includes several drawing inserts for processing strips and rods. It is possible to modernize forging equipment by purchasing auxiliary equipment.

Average price – 13,000 rubles.

Stalex PS14 100910

Advantages:

• ease of use;
• compactness;
• manufacturer's warranty;
• operational resource;
• wide scope of application;
• possibility of modernization;
• manual reconfiguration is allowed;
• equipment;
• increased strength frame.

Flaws:

• none.

AURA TOOLS Twister 6500021

The operation of this unit is based on the use of the method of longitudinal twisting of strips and squares around the torsion bar. The hand tool allows you to work with square profiles (up to 14x14 mm) and strips (up to 30 mm). The weight of the device is 15 kg. An excellent solution for a small workshop.

Cost – 9900 rub.

AURA TOOLS Twister 6500021

Advantages:

• possibility of modernization;
• build quality;
• compactness;
• ease of use;
• manufacturer's warranty.

Flaws:

• none.

Torsion bar Basket Titan 4687201781974

This budget device is designed to work with strips and metal rods from which they make baskets or torsion bars. During operation, the material curls along its axis into a spiral. Allows you to create unusual crafts and make unusual decorative elements. An excellent way to create balusters (fencing), as well as gates and fences. Can be used to make terraces and gazebos of complex shapes. Declared dimensions: 1600x100x150 mm, with a weight of 14 kg.

How much does the device cost? The purchase will cost 7950 rubles.

Torsion bar Basket Titan 4687201781974

Advantages:

• manufacturer's warranty;
• compactness;
• multifunctionality;
• mobility;
• possibility of modernization.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Bend for cold forging

AURA TOOLS Gnutik 6500022

This device is designed for the production of rings, half-rings and arcs. The machine belongs to the manual category, and is characterized by the presence of compact dimensions. An excellent solution for arranging a home workshop and making small decorative elements yourself. Weight – 19 kg.

Cost – 12900 rub.

AURA TOOLS Gnutik 6500022

Advantages:

• ease of use;
• brand guarantee;
• positive reviews;
• protective covering;
• operational resource.

Flaws:

• none.

HELICON Bulat Torsion 00-00001444

This device will be an excellent solution for a home workshop. Used for the manufacture of torsion bars, lanterns and baskets. For this, the cold forging method is used, which does not require preheating the material used. Despite its compact size and affordable price, the device is able to cope with workpieces of any level of complexity. Declared dimensions: 1600x150x150 mm.

Average price – 9631 rub.

HELICON Bulat Torsion 00-00001444

Advantages:

• warranty – one year;
• compactness;
• ease of use;
• durable frame;
• protective covering.

Flaws:

• none.

Stancraft Gnutik 110123

It is this type of equipment that is best purchased for home use by craftsmen who specialize in the production of various elements using the cold forging method. According to buyers, the device allows you to create complex objects without much effort. The presence of a protective coating, which eliminates the risk of corrosion, deserves special attention.

How much does the device cost? The purchase will cost 7990 rubles.

Stancraft Gnutik 110123

Advantages:

• creation of volumetric products is allowed;
• bends twigs at any angle;
• compactness;
• ease of use;
• build quality.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Wave machines for cold forging

AURA TOOLS Wave 6500024

This design is designed for bending a sinusoid from a strip, rod or square. An excellent solution for craftsmen who specialize in the manufacture of monastery, Kremlin or boyar grilles. The body is made from a high-strength metal alloy that is protected against corrosion.

Cost – 9900 rub.

AURA TOOLS Wave 6500024

Advantages:

• resistance to high loads;
• build quality;
• corrosion resistance;
• ease of use;
• wide scope of application.

Flaws:

• none.

Wave Titan 4687201781981

This design is designed for bending profiles, strips (up to 30x6 mm) or rods (up to 14 mm) into a wave. For the manufacture of key elements, high-quality carbon steel is used, which is characterized by resistance to corrosion. The housing is designed to withstand significant loads. Declared dimensions: 550x300x300 mm with a weight of 7 kg.

How much does the device cost? The purchase will cost 6950 rubles.

Wave Titan 4687201781981

Advantages:

• positive reviews;
• compactness;
• build quality;
• corrosion resistance;
• designed for significant loads.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Stancraft Wave 110124

Before choosing this model, it should be noted that it belongs to the category of specialized equipment. Used for artistic cold forging. Designed for the manufacture of products of any complexity with minimal effort. All key elements such as connections are protected against corrosion. Used to create wave-like elements from a profile pipe. The wave depth is set manually.

Average price – 6990 rub.

Stancraft Wave 110124

Advantages:

• significant loads are allowed;
• build quality;
• protective covering;
• operational resource;
• positive reviews.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Snail cold forging machines

INTech CU

This device is characterized by increased strength and reliability. An excellent solution for a home workshop and creating products of any level of complexity. High-quality hinges and welds are responsible for increased reliability and safety. You should also pay attention to the presence of corrosion protection, which has a beneficial effect on the service life of the structure.

Cost – 10,500 rubles.

INtech KU

Advantages:

• mobility;
• brand guarantee;
• corrosion protection;
• multifunctionality;
• ease of use.

Flaws:

• none.

HELICON Snail Bulat 00-00001453

This model is designed for bending metal pipes (up to 15x15 mm), rods (14x14 mm) and strips (20x5 mm) without the need to preheat the material. An excellent solution for craftsmen who specialize in creating fences, furniture, stairs, railings, gates, gazebos and openwork fences. The maximum curl diameter is 270 mm, and the minimum is 60 mm.

How much does the device cost? The purchase will cost 9631 rubles.

HELICON Snail Bulat 00-00001453

Advantages:

• ease of use;
• quality of assembly and components;
• brand guarantee;
• operational resource;
• safety.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Stancraft Mini Curl 110128

This specialized equipment is a snail that is used to create miniature curls. A narrowly targeted device cannot be used to solve more complex problems. Helps create decorative elements without any effort. An excellent solution for those craftsmen who specialize in creating fences and gates. The curl diameter will be 50-160 mm.

You can purchase the device at a price of 2555 rubles.

Stancraft Mini Curl 110128

Advantages:

• ease of use;
• mobility;
• operational resource;
• compactness;
• brand guarantee.

Flaws:

• highly targeted device.

Hot Forging Equipment

If we compare the cold and hot forging methods, we can immediately say that the first method requires much more skill from the worker, the presence of some artistic skills and, of course, the ability to work with a set of necessary tools.

Hot Forging Equipment

Forging of the material occurs after it is preheated in a forge furnace. It's called a forge. The forge is equipped with equipment for forced air supply. Heating is carried out to a given temperature and then transferred to the anvil. This is a metal plate on which impact processing of a heated workpiece is carried out. It is performed using hammers and sledgehammers of different weights. One worker, with a light hammer, strikes the desired place, and the second, armed with a heavy hammer or sledgehammer, strikes a strong blow to the designated place. After the workpiece has cooled, it is again loaded into the oven for heating. All movements of the part during its processing are performed using pliers with long handles.

Hand hot forging

In addition to the above-mentioned basic tools, during hot forging, many special tools are used that allow cutting hot metal and forming complex surfaces during hot forging of metal.

Forge

To heat the workpieces, furnaces are used, which are called forges. Its design includes several components. In particular:

• barrel made of fire-resistant material;
• hearth, with built-in grate;
• air supply and exhaust systems;
• working window through which long workpieces are fed;
• a chimney through which combustion products are removed.

Gas forge forge

In addition, the forge also includes a quenching bath. The operation of a classic forge is based on the unique reducing ability of carbon. It is this ability that successfully resists the oxidation of the workpiece, that is, its combustion. The calorific value of carbon is also important here. The fact is that when supplying air, it is necessary to regulate its quantity. There should be enough of it to burn the carbon, and the heat generated will raise the temperature in the furnace even higher.

In addition, the air supply to the forge must be adjusted so that the supplied oxygen is not enough to oxidize the metal. But if the heated workpiece is kept in this state for more than the required time, then it will become oversaturated with carbon. There is such a term - overdrying, that is, the metal becomes very fragile. By the way, cast iron can be used as an overdried metal.

Muffle furnace

Equipment that is used to heat parts made of different materials to a given temperature is called a muffle furnace.

Muffle furnace

A distinctive feature of this equipment is the presence of a muffle. So, they call a part that protects the part from contact with fuel and combustion products and at the same time serves as a chamber in which the part is heated. In practice, two types of such furnaces are used, with a permanent and replaceable muffle. In the first furnace, the loaded parts undergo all operations - from heating to readiness, in the second, only until cooling. That is, as the required temperature and a certain holding time of the workpiece are reached, one muffle is removed and another is installed in its place.

It should be noted that both the forge and muffle furnaces can use different types of fuel - gas, coal, firewood, light and dark oil products, etc.

Anvil

One of the key tools used for both cold and hot forging of metals is the anvil. It is on its surface that blacksmiths deform the workpiece and bring it to a finished form. The anvil is heavy and therefore it is rigidly fixed to a wooden block.

Anvil - Key Tools

The structural anvil consists of:

• horns;
• platband with holes;
• bases with paws for installing an anvil.

For the manufacture of this tool, 45L steel is used. It should be noted that anvils are products manufactured in accordance with a number of GOSTs. For example, GOST 11396-75 normalizes hornless products weighing from 92 to 200 kg, and GOST 11398-75 defines the requirements for products with two horns and weighing from 100 to 270 kg.

The hardness of the material from which anvils are made is 340 - 477 HB.