Describe the process that you would use to hot forge an automotive connecting rod, indicating why each of the steps is used.

Hot forging is a process which is carried at a temperature that is higher than the recrystalization temperature.

Explanation:

A connecting rod is used in a reciprocating engine which links the piston to the crankshaft. Connecting rods are made of steel which are hot forged.

The various steps that are used to hot forged a connecting rod are:

1. Rods are made to cut in the required size from the billet by billet shearing machine or saw band.

2. Heating of the billets in the furnace upto its recrystalization temperature.

3. Placing the billets in both upper and lower dies and doing the forging operation.

4. Rolling forging : it is important for the quality of the forged component.

5. Finishing and trimming : finishing is done to improve the surface quality and provide a smooth finish.

6. Inspection : Visual inspection is done for any defects.