Cold heading, also known as cold forming, has been used in manufacturing for over 75 years and has undergone significant advancements over time. One of the most significant advantages of cold heading is the near elimination of scrap, which can cost manufacturers and customers profitability. This makes cold heading a viable and cost-effective choice for metals that are difficult or expensive to recycle or reuse, particularly when raw material prices are high.
While cold heading offers high speed, reproducibility, and higher strength in the finished product, it may not always be the best or only manufacturing process used for a part. For some parts, a combination of cold forming and secondary processes may be more practical. Cold heading may also not be the most economical approach for high carbon alloys that do not form well at room temperatures, and asymmetrical part geometries may affect the viability of cold heading.
When suitable, cold heading offers manufacturers an opportunity to increase production efficiency and reduce operating costs, enabling customers to obtain consistent, high-quality parts at a significantly lower price. Therefore, cold forming is a manufacturing option that should always be considered.
