Forming of seamless pipe fittings

Analysis and results of the high temperature forming of seamless pipe fittings produced at a local factory are presented in this work. The studies were conducted by recording the thermal evolution in different parts of the piece as it was being forged, which was done by placing a series of type K thermocouples within the part and logging the data into a computer driven system. The initial trials put in evidence the need to change the heating practice in order to ensure a greater thermal homogeneity. Metallographic evaluation was carried out on formed pieces to study variations in their microstructure before and after the changes in the heating practice were made. Modification of this practice resulted in improvements in quality, such as the reduction in the variation in microstructure and wall thickness, as well as an increase in productivity, as the pressing speed was augmented.