Hot Forming and Cold Forming of Steel: What is the Difference

Hot forming and cold forming, both have their own unique uses in the field of steel parts manufacturing.

Here’s everything you need to know about hot forming, cold forming and the difference between hot forming and cold forming of steel.

Hot Forming of Steel

Hot forming is a process of not just extruding, but also rolling steel under extreme temperatures, reaching up to 1200 °C. Hot forming of steel occurs at temperatures above its crystallization point, so that it is able to retain its newly defined shape when cooled. Additionally, the extremely high temperatures of hot forming actually alter the grain structure of the metal. By reducing the structure into finer grain it guards against strain hardening of the material.

Uses of Hot Forming of Steel

These factors make the hot forming process the preferred method for manufacturing complex metal designs and some thicknesses of coiled steel sheets. The hot forming process is also used to manufacture structural shapes, including trusses, such as I-beams that are required to support and reinforce buildings.

Cold Forming of Steel

Cold forming of steel processed at or just slightly above room temperature and below the steel’s recrystallization temperature using a localized compressive force. This process form the steel into its desired shape or configuration that results higher volumes and lower part costs.

Uses of Cold Forming of Steel

Cold roll forming of steel are used in numerous industrial and commercial areas like: Fassteners, Power distribution components, Sign posts and guard rails, Trains, Trucks, Trailers, Refrigeration, Solar, Commercial food storage, Home Appliances, Containers, Cost effective structural parts.

Differences Between Hot Forming and Cold Forming of Steel

* Higher number of rolls of cold forming ensures it's improved quality and tighter tolerances.

When after rolling (hot forming and cold forming) is complete, the steel pieces are finished using secondary processing techniques to increase their corrosion resistance and improve their mechanical properties, such as:

• Coating
• Surface treatment
• Heat treatment

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