Nondestructive determination of mechanical properties of open-die forgings and potentials for full implementation in production process chain

Saarschmiede Freiformschmiede (SSF) is continuously developing and implementing NDT-techniques into its process chain to ensure highest product quality. The cooperation with Fraunhofer Institute for non-destructive Testing (IZFP) permitted to correlate 3MA-signals to mechanical properties measured destructively by tensile testing. High accuracies between destructive and non-destructive determination of tensile properties have been observed during first examinations.Implementation of the 3MA-technique into SSF's production chain permits shorter lead times due to fast preevaluationof mechanical properties before final inspection by destructive techniques. This paper will show the advantages of using the 3MA-technique for the pre-determination of mechanical properties. Shorter lead times and reduction of direct costs are examples that enlighten its benefits. Results of calibration measurements on creep-resistant steels and steel grades, that are tough at low temperatures will be presented and the possibility for implementation into the production chain will be introduced.