Pre-forming by cross wedge rolling - Potentials for efficiency increase and resource savings

The realization of appropriate pre-forms, e. g. for subsequent forging operations, aimed at distributing the material volume contributes to better utilization of the material, reducing the amount of energy required for heating and improving quality by using near-net-shape geometries. A range of different technologies is available for this purpose. The technology of cross wedge rolling represents the main focus of this paper. The technique of cross wedge rolling is an incremental forming process with open groove and partial force exposure. The forming process is realized by using wedge-shaped tools, or its realization is based on controlled axial feed of simple round tools. An overview will be given about process basics, achievable effects concerning material efficiency, process limits and application examples.