Precision forging of a high strength superplastic zinc-aluminum alloy

Precision forgings can be produced in a high strength zinc aluminum alloy exhibiting superplasticity by means of an isothermal forging cycle which combines an approach at constant speed followed by a dwell at constant load. This study shows that integral threads, sharp corners, and very thin webs can be formed directly in the forging operation. A pressure compensated time parameter is developed which permits forging operations over a range of different conditions to be correlated. This parameter may be used to predict the result of actual precision forging processes from scale model tests. Formerly with St. Joe Mineral Corp.