What is swaging

Swaging is a mechanical deformation technique of reducing or shaping the cross-section of rods or tubes by means of repeated impacts or blows, especially in order to reduce cross-section.

Swaging is similar to the forging process in which the dimensions of items are altered using dies into which the item is forced.

Swaging is usually a cold working process but sometimes also done by hot working.

Swaging is a noisy operation but it can be reduced by proper mounting of the machine or by the use of the enclosure.

Types of swaging :

Swaging can be classified as the following category :

• Internal swaging 
• External swaging
• Combination swaging
• Dual swaging 
• Rotary swaging

Internal swaging can provide grip to hose material, and be used to improve flow area through tubing or hoses. While external swaging is the opposite of internal swaging. 

Combination swaging is similar to external swaging, except for the fact it involves welding ends together. It also is known to be more cost-effective than external swaging. 

Dual swaging uses both internal and external swaging and involves compressing both aspects by the same amount. Rotary swaging is an operation where the two dies which are free to move radially are held in a spindle that rotates continuously. 

Operation :

In swaging operation, the work material is completely restricted by the die which is given the requisite external shape. These dies intermittently hammer the stock to produce deformation. This hammering action producing the necessary shape also ensure good surface quality, better grain structure and high tensile strength. 

This is simply carried out by any unskilled operator.

Advantages of swaging :

• The parts produced by swaging have tolerance in the range ± 0.05 mm to ± 0.5 mm
• Improved mechanical properties.
• The use of lubricants helps in obtaining a better work surface finish and longer die life.
• Tungsten and molybdenum are generally swaged at elevated temperatures as they have low ductility at room temperature.
• Hot swaging is also used to form long or steep tapers, and for large reductions.

Where swaging is used :

• This process mostly used in car design. 
• Repairing the musical instrument.
• Also used in circuit boards, hose fittings, pipe fittings, lock bolts, sawing blade teeth.
• Typical parts manufactured by this process like screwdrivers, furniture legs, tapered bar and tubes.
• Swaging used in manufacturing industries for pointing the end of a workpiece.