Jiangsu Pacific Precision Forging Company, a forging manufacturer based in Taizhou, China, placed an order for a closed-die forging press. The new press will enable the company to forge aluminum chassis components on a much larger scale.
As part of the Confederation of Chinese Metalforming Industry (CCMI), Pacific Precision Forging is a well-known, worldwide supplier of precision gears and gear-shafts. Until now, the company has mainly been focusing on steel forging. The new expansion project will enable the company to serve the growing automotive market with aluminum forgings for lightweight vehicle designs.
“Against the background of CO2-reduction measures, the demand for lighter vehicle components is growing worldwide,” said Bernhard Kaminski from the Sales Closed-die Forging Presses team at SMS group. “This is where forgings made of aluminum have tremendous potential: in addition to their lighter weight, they boast high material strength and a long life cycle.”
The project includes the supply of a new fully automatic MP 3150 eccentric closed-die forging press. SMS group will provide both the 31.5 MN press and tools, which are specially designed for forging aluminum. “With numerous reference plants in China, and particularly with its aluminum forging technology, SMS group impressed us right across the board,” said James Guan, head of Forging at Jiangsu Pacific Precision Forging. “In order for us to enter the market for aluminum forging, SMS’ expertise was the crucial factor for placing this order. SMS also has qualified experts on hand in China to support us.”
The MP 3150 closed-die forging press will be equipped with a fully automatic walking-beam system and spraying technology for cooling and lubrication. A harmonious motion sequence of the automatic walking beam is provided by servo-electric drives for each axis of movement. Sensors permanently monitor the ram position and ensure fully synchronized, trouble-free operation. The extremely low-maintenance electro-hydraulic clutch-brake system ensures precise switching.
“For aluminum forging, SMS has not only the proven press concepts but also the necessary process expertise,” said Kaminski. “Our tools are designed to suit the special material flow for the aluminum forming process and enable narrow temperature ranges [that need] to be adhered to.”
Commissioning of the new eccentric press is scheduled for the second quarter of 2024.