TRENDS IN AEROSPACE FORGINGS IN THE 1990S

In the 1990s, forgivings require computer-aided design and manufacturi ng, process modeling, cleaner forgiving materials, better control of f orging and related processes, and closer cooperation between supplier and customer. Forgers will have to employ more sophisticated forging a nd sensing and control equipment to better meet the demands of close t olerances and increasingly difficult-to-forge materials. Customers wil l continue to place higher emphasis on quality that remains consistent ly high. This article examines trends in aerospace forgings that will affect forgers, equipment and materials suppliers in the 1990s. Most o f these trends are virtually certain to occur; indeed, some have alrea dy begun. What is less certain is the degree to which these trends wil l occur, and the rapidity of their occurrence.