Closed Die Forging of Powder Metal Performs Comparison of P/M Forging Systems

The project was aimed at establishing the potential usefulness of existing standard forge shop equipment for producing precision powder metal P M forgings. The accelerator for the M85 machine gun was used as the demonstration component. The minimum deformation type tooling for hydraulic press forging the accelerator was adapted for service in a mechanical crank type press and a steam drop forging hammer. A die set was constructed which provided hydraulic cushions to absorb the excess force generated during forging. The die set also provided an ejection mechanism to recover the completed forging and incorporated provisions for accurate alignment of punch and die. A number of ordnance components were identified as candidates for PM forgings and facility requirements were defined. The mechanical press was found to be superior to either the hydraulic press or steam drop hammer for producing this type of precision forging.