Upsetter ratings
Q: We are considering adding some upsetting machines, and I would like to know more about their size ratings (e.g., 4-in., 7-in., etc). What exactly does this mean? I’ve heard various explanations, ranging from throat width to cold-bar shearing capability, and more.
A: Upsetters are rated in various ways. The first is the maximum diameter of head that can be upset, which is usually rated on the basis of carbon steel, not high-alloy steel. The next rating is on tonnages for the grip and ram. These are actually more meaningful to the tool designer because they represent the ability to upset a certain size head and the ability to grip the bar while upsetting.
44114-1503.
Q: We are considering adding some upsetting machines, and I would like to know more about their size ratings (e.g., 4-in., 7-in., etc). What exactly does this mean? I’ve heard various explanations, ranging from throat width to cold-bar shearing capability, and more.
A: Upsetters are rated in various ways. The first is the maximum diameter of head that can be upset, which is usually rated on the basis of carbon steel, not high-alloy steel. The next rating is on tonnages for the grip and ram. These are actually more meaningful to the tool designer because they represent the ability to upset a certain size head and the ability to grip the bar while upsetting.
Some upsetters come with four pockets for grip dies and others have two or three. Some of the older National designs include three sets of inserts and ram (punch) positions. Also, there are cold headers, as well as progressive forging machines, that are more like parts formers without grip-die arrangements.
H. James Henning answers forgers’ technical and operational questions. For more than 40 years he held key technical positions in the forging industry, most recently as director of technology for the Forging Industry Association. He is president of Henning Education Services, Columbus, OH, specializing in customized education and training in forging technologies.Send questions to
44114-1503.
Or e-mail: henningedu@aol.com
Guidelines and recommendations offered here are based on information believed to be reliable and are supplied in good faith but without guarantee. Operational conditions that exist in individual plants and facilities vary widely. Users of this information should adapt it, and always exercise independent discretion in establishing plant or facility operating practice.
