STEEL FORGING VS CASTING

The casting process is preferred for:

parts and components that would be too complex or expensive to manufacture by steel forging (example: large valve bodies);
parts that have internal cavities;
large sized parts (there are virtually no size limits in terms of the weight of the parts that can be produced with the casting process);
parts in special alloys (some specific alloys are more difficult to forge than cast, for example, those with a high content of Nickel and Moly, which have considerable resistance to mechanical forces);
parts requiring mass production and small lots.

The forging process is preferred for:

parts requiring extremely high strength, toughness, and resistance (indeed, during the forging process the steel grain structure gets modified to conform to the shape of the final product – with high uniformity of composition and metallurgical recrystallization);
parts that have to withstand stronger impacts and mechanical forces;
parts where porosity, the risk of a gas void, pockets, and the possible formation of cavities (even micro-granular) are not acceptable;
production of mechanically strong parts without using expensive alloys;
parts that require high wear resistance;
parts subject to high loads and stress;
high-end applications when the integrity and the quality of the part is the main objective in the production process, rather than time and cost.

GET DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CAST AND FORGED IRONS INFORMATION

Advantages and Disadvantages of Forged Valves

There are many reasons why you may want a forged ball valve for your application instead of a cast valve. Forged valves do tend to be better for high-temperature and high-pressure applications. These types of valves are less prone to thermal fatigue because the walls are thinner compared to cast alternatives. Also, forged options have a higher mass, making them mechanically stronger.

However, there are a few reasons why a forged ball valve may not be best for your application. First, the forging process does create limitations for valve size and shape. Forging generally works better for smaller valves and components. In addition, not every metal is suitable for forging, which limits your options for valve material.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Cast Valves

Cast valves are a great option where you need quick turnaround and low-cost valves, as they require less labor to produce. Also, the casting process allows for more complex shapes and valve manufacturing. You also have greater flexibility in material choice, as many types of metals are suitable for casting.

While cast valves are quite strong and durable when you choose a high-quality manufacturer, there are still some restrictions. For example, the solidification process can create small impurities in the metal. They also are less resistant to high temperatures and pressures compared to a forged ball valve.