Aluminum and steel impact extrusion is an efficient manufacturing process well suited for the production of cans, tubes, and other similarly shaped metal parts. Impacting creates parts of near-net shape, bringing with it many cost and performance benefits.
The impact extrusion process is one of the fastest ways to get to near-net shape for many parts and components. Our process begins with a lubricated metal slug—also called a blank or a puck—that is placed in a die cavity.
The metal puck is struck with a punch powered by a mechanical or hydraulic press. This forces the metal to flow into a shape or position almost instantly.
The resulting shape of the extruded part depends on what type of impact extrusion is being performed: reverse impacting, forward impacting, or combination impacting. Below are graphics that highlight the key differences and attributes of the three main types.
In reverse impact extrusions, metal flows backward—the opposite direction of the force that is delivered—and around the punch. The resulting part is the same shape of the punch.
In forward impact extrusions, the punch forces the metal through an opening in the die. The punch fits the die cavity so closely that no metal is able to flow backward.
Combination impacting involves both impacting processes. Producing more complex part shapes, combination impacting forces metal through an opening and also backward around the punch.
