At Barrett Engineering Steel, we stock both rolled and forged bars up to 700mm in diameter across our sites. While both types of bars serve different purposes, there are notable differences between them. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for selecting the right material for your application. In this blog, we’ll explore these key differences and help you determine which material is best suited to your requirements.
The primary difference between rolled engineering bar and forged engineering bar lies in the manufacturing process used to shape the material. This process directly impacts the mechanical properties, surface finish, and overall suitability for different applications.
Rolled Engineering Bars Rolled engineering bars are produced through a process where steel billets are heated and then passed through a series of rollers to achieve the desired shape and size. Some bars, after hot rolling, may undergo further cold rolling to improve dimensional accuracy and surface finish. Forged Engineering Bars The forging process involves heating the material and then using mechanical forces (hammering or pressing) to shape the steel. Forging aligns the grain structure of the steel, increasing strength and toughness.
The rolling process is generally more cost-effective as it can be performed in high volumes with minimal material wastage. The efficiency of the rolling process makes it a preferred choice for applications that require large quantities of material without the need for superior mechanical properties. On the other hand, the forging process is more labour-intensive and requires specialised equipment, making it more energy-consuming. Due to these factors, forged bars are typically more expensive than rolled bars.
The choice between rolled and forged bars largely depends on the specific requirements of the application. · Rolled Bars: Rolled bars are widely used in industries such as construction, automotive, and general engineering due to their cost-effectiveness and adequate mechanical properties. They are often used in applications where good machinability and consistent quality are required. · Forged Bars: Forged bars are commonly used in industries such as oil and gas, aerospace, and heavy machinery.
At Barrett Engineering Steel, we offer our rolled bars in both black and bright surface finishes. Black bars typically have a mill finish due to the hot rolling process, while bright bars undergo additional processing such as cold drawing, peeling, turning or grinding to achieve a smooth precision finish. All our forged bars are supplied in a peeled condition. Peeling involves removing the outer surface of the bar to create a uniform and refined finish. This process can be advantageous as it reduces machining time by allowing customers to select a diameter closer to their finished part requirements, minimising material wastage and improving efficiency.
Regardless of your requirements, we’ve got you covered. Our extensive stock of both rolled and forged bars ensures that we can meet a wide range of needs. If you require further guidance, our team is always available to provide expert advice tailored to your specific application.
To find your local depot, click [here] or explore our full stock range further to see how Barrett Engineering Steel can support your project.