Cold-Forged Steel Bar Stock

Cold-forged steel bar stock is a semi-finished industrial material produced by applying compressive forces to steel at room temperature. This process refines the grain structure and enhances mechanical properties, resulting in improved tensile strength, yield strength, and fatigue resistance compared to hot-forged alternatives. The material offers superior dimensional accuracy and surface finish, making it suitable for high-precision components in manufacturing. It serves as the foundational input for subsequent machining, stamping, or forming operations. Available in carbon steel and alloy steel grades, the bar stock is supplied in standard diameters ranging from 10 to 100 mm and lengths from 3000 to 6000 mm. Key parameters include a diameter tolerance of ±0.05 mm (ISO 286-2), yield strength of at least 600 MPa (ASTM A370), surface roughness of Ra ≤1.6 (ISO 4287), carbon content of 0.15–0.30% (ASTM A29), hardness of 180–220 HB (ISO 6506-1), tensile strength of 700–850 MPa (ASTM A370), straightness of ≤1.5 mm/m (ISO 1101), decarburization depth of ≤0.3 mm (ISO 3887), and a fine pearlite plus ferrite microstructure (ISO 643). Weight per meter ranges from 0.617 to 61.7 kg/m (ISO 1035-2). These specifications are directory references and must be verified with the legal manufacturer or supplier for the specific model or application. The material is optimized for cold forging processes, ensuring consistent quality and machinability. It is important to confirm that the selected grade and dimensions meet the requirements of your intended use, as actual performance may vary based on processing conditions and final heat treatment.

Cold forging applies compressive forces to steel at ambient temperature, causing plastic deformation without melting. This process refines the grain structure and induces work hardening, which increases strength and hardness while maintaining tight tolerances. The steel is forced through dies or shaped by hammers, resulting in a dense, uniform microstructure that enhances mechanical properties. The absence of high temperatures prevents oxidation and scale formation, leading to a better surface finish and dimensional accuracy. The process is suitable for producing semi-finished bar stock that retains improved properties for subsequent machining or forming operations.