Hot metal forging

Forging

The process of using pressure to shape metal.

Hand Forging

A metal shaping technique that has been used long before written records.

Forge

An equipment used to heat metal prior to forging, typically fired by gas or coal.

Anvil

A heavy block on which heated metal is shaped, with features for forming and punching.

Tongs

Tools used to hold hot metal while being shaped; important to choose the right type.

Hammers

Tools used for shaping metal; weight varies depending on the nature of the work.

Hardy Hole

A square hole in the anvil designed to hold specific tools for shaping metal.

Chisels

Tools used to cut metal, designed for safe and easier manipulation.

Punches

Tools used to make holes in hot metal.

Bright Red

The proper heating temperature for most mild steel before forging.

Dull Red

The maximum heating temperature for tool steel before it loses desirable characteristics.

Drawing Out Metal

The process of stretching metal to decrease its cross-section.

Bending Metal

Various methods to shape metal, such as over the anvil face or horn.