Is billet steel stronger than forged?

Billet steel and forged steel are both strong, but the strength and properties of each depend on the specific processes they undergo and the intended use. Here’s a comparison of the two:

1. Billet Steel

Billet steel refers to a type of steel that is produced by casting a metal into a mold to form a billet, which is a solid block of metal that is later further processed (often by rolling or machining) into a finished shape.

• Strength: Billet steel is generally strong, but it may not have the same mechanical properties as forged steel. The casting process can result in certain imperfections or inclusions in the metal, which could impact the overall strength, especially under high stress.
• Homogeneity: Billet steel can have less uniformity in its internal grain structure compared to forged steel because the casting process may create uneven solidification. The metal grains in billets tend to be larger and less aligned, which can affect the strength and toughness.
• Applications: Billets are often used as starting materials for further processing, such as rolling or forging, and can be used in products that don’t require extreme strength or toughness.

2. Forged Steel

Forged steel is produced by shaping metal through compressive forces, typically in a hammer or press, which is done at high temperatures. The process strengthens the material by aligning its internal grain structure.

• Strength: Forging improves the mechanical properties of steel significantly. The process refines the grain structure, making the metal more uniform, dense, and stronger. The alignment of the grains in the direction of the applied force results in superior toughness, resistance to impact, and fatigue strength. For these reasons, forged steel is often considered stronger and more durable than billet steel.
• Homogeneity: Forged steel tends to have a more uniform microstructure due to the compressive forces, which also reduces defects like porosity and internal voids.
• Applications: Forged steel is commonly used in applications that require high strength and toughness, such as automotive components (crankshafts, gears), aerospace parts, and industrial machinery.

Conclusion:

In general, forged steel is stronger and more durable than billet steel due to the refining of the grain structure during the forging process. Billet steel can be strong for certain applications, but forging offers enhanced mechanical properties, making it ideal for high-stress, high-performance uses.