Mixer      06/26/2020

Do-it-yourself torsion machine. How to make a homemade cold forging machine with your own hands? Homemade cold forging machine: material preparation

You can make machines for cold forging from improvised materials.

Since universal fixtures from manufacturers have a fairly high cost, a self-made machine for cold forging metal will become great solution for people involved in the manufacture of forged products.

Today, metal structures with a unique design and bold architectural forms are used to equip houses in cottage settlements.

Figuratively curved forged elements of gates, fences and wickets bring an unusual image into landscape design estates.

On the proposed photos you can see what an unusual artistic look the metal structures create.

What parts can be made on a cold forging machine

Cold forging, unlike hot technology, is simple and safe. This process does not require the use of hot metal and the exact observance of the operating temperature.

You can make a do-it-yourself cold forging machine specifically for the manufacture of a certain type of part.

Also, a home-made machine will allow you to solve a wide variety of tasks, so it will be simply universal.

With the help of a home-made machine, it will be possible to achieve the ideal geometry of metal elements for an individual design idea and make original details with a pattern yourself.

In the process of cold decorative forging, as a rule, soft metal is used - it can be nickel and magnesium alloys, steel, copper or brass.

Otherwise, the range of products produced on the machine will be limited only by the imagination and the ability of the master.

Optionally, you can make openwork elements for stairs, gates and fences with your own hands.

The use of decorative details will allow you to decorate fireplaces and barbecues, beautifully decorate the outer walls of the house and the gazebo, make original tripods for flowers, as in the photo.

Types of equipment for cold forging

Existing types of machine tools can be operated with the participation of electric motor or manual force.

The first version of the device makes it possible to perform work faster than manual ones, but at the same time it requires certain skills from the master.

Forging machines for forging are divided into types:

  • snail - a machine with separate removable parts or a solid cast - it is used when making spiral-shaped separate parts;
  • universal fixture - used for cutting, riveting and giving volume to the product;
  • bending - with its help you can make arc bending of metal or bending parts at a certain angle;
  • device for forming rings;
  • twister - allows you to bend the product along the axis;
  • press - for the formation of a matrix print on the product;
  • wave - to obtain wave-like elements from metal rods.

Manufacturing of the machine "Snail"

Using the list of tools and metal parts below, you can assemble a one-piece snail machine.

For work you will need:

  • metal rods;
  • sheets and strips of steel;
  • profile steel pipe;
  • welding, pliers, grinder.

Drawings and step by step diagram, as well as watching a thematic video, will allow you to get a high-quality device with the necessary parameters:

  • Using a sheet of paper, draw on it the image of a spiral with three turns. Next, check the dimensions so that as a result a reinforced rod with a diameter of 10 mm fits into the thread;
  • Using a grinder, cut out two plates from a steel sheet. The first should have parameters 100x100 mm, the second - 130x130 mm;
  • Take a 3 cm rod and three steel strips. The edges of the cuts of all used parts must be cleaned with emery to get rid of burrs;
  • Using pliers, bend the steel strips according to the template, as a result you will have three spiral parts with different lengths;
  • With the help of welding, all elements of the machine are welded according to the scheme, welding work it is recommended to carry out qualitatively, since the life of the tool will depend on them;
  • The steel pipe is welded last from the bottom in the center of the machine.

As a result of the work carried out, equipment for cold forging of metal should be obtained, as in the photo.

If no one experiences difficulties when decorating any interior elements with cutting profile pipes, then if necessary, bending them, on the contrary, everything becomes more complicated.

Special bending machines for pipes, which can be done in advance with your own hands, will allow you to carry out such work qualitatively and quickly.

Drawings for the manufacture of this type of equipment can be used differently, depending on what materials will be used in the work.

It is difficult at first glance to assemble a production-type machine for cold forging metal, as in the photo.

But if the master, working with metal, has already managed to gain experience, nothing is impossible for him. The main thing is to choose a solid stable foundation for the future design.

For example, it can be a massive metal table made on the basis of pipes or a profile.

Since the bending of the metal will occur due to the shafts present in the structure, it is necessary to select three such elements.

Each of them is a metal cylinder with thick walls and an axis of rotation. Two cylinders are fixed slightly above the table, and the third, the central one, is placed above them.

The distance between the two extreme cylinders determines at what angle the pipe will be bent.

In order to be able to change the position of the cylinders if necessary, it is necessary to make additions to the design drawings in the form of stoppers and rollers that will make this part adjustable.

After the cylinders are fixed, it is necessary to organize a rotation transmission system for them.

For this purpose, they use a chain mechanism from an old car, which can be found on the spare parts market.

It is better if the mechanism is equipped with gears, if not, then they will have to be purchased separately.

Gears are mounted on two extreme cylinders and a tensioner placed below the shafts in the center. Then one of the extreme cylinders is equipped with a handle in order to create a rotating force.

The machine for cold forging of metal products is ready. The following video will help to supplement the above material with details.

How to make a torsion machine

A machine for cold forging of torsion-type products is used to twist metal spirals in the form of a snake.

It is difficult to work with such a device manually, therefore, most often for the manufacture of a torsion bar, drawings with electrical versions of machine tools are used.

In order to properly assemble the torsion bar, we suggest watching the video and reading the guide below.

Tools and materials for machine assembly:

  • steel sheet;
  • I-beam;
  • vice and fasteners;
  • gearbox, electric motor, chain;
  • Bulgarian;
  • welding.

Sequence diagram:

  • An I-beam will serve as the basis, to one side of which it is necessary to weld a steel sheet;
  • Then a vice is attached to the steel, welded and fixed with bolts and nuts;
  • So that when tensioning a metal product does not jump out of the machine, plates are attached to the vice from below and from above;
  • The other side of the I-beam is equipped with rollers, on which, subsequently, the platform is mounted;
  • Other vices with movable main elements are attached to the surface of the resulting structure. In this case, both structures located along the edges of the I-beam should be located on the same level;
  • Further, the structure is equipped with a steel handle made of a rod; due to its rotation, the product will bend;
  • Using bolts, connect the reduction gear and the motor. The wheel rim is equipped with a chain;
  • The structure is covered with a steel casing.

As a result of the actions taken, a machine with two blocks is obtained - a movable and a fixed one.

Any master, equipping a home forge, acquires a minimum set of tools and accessories. But, as a rule, the simplest technological operations with metal blanks are done only at the first stage.

With gaining experience with iron, there is both a desire and a need to do artistic forging - this is both a home decoration and additional income. Unfortunately, the machine for giving samples a spiral shape - a snail - is practically not found on sale. One way or another, but home craftsmen, as a rule, make it with their own hands. Features of self-design and assembly of a snail for cold forging are the topic of this article.

Snail Features

The author specifically decided to draw the reader's attention to a number of points. This will help you avoid some mistakes in the future. For example, having dealt with the device of the snail and the principle of its functioning, someone will want to assemble their own device, different from those whose drawings will be presented below.

Such a device will completely (if we are talking about do-it-yourself equipment) allow bending samples with a cross section (square side) of no more than 10 - 12 mm. A snail model with "manual control" is implied. With more overall samples in everyday life, almost no one has anything to do. The machine can be improved by installing a drive and an electric motor.

But how rational is this for a small home forge?

  • Cold forging is carried out at low speeds. A sharp change in the geometry of the metal leads to the appearance of cracks (ruptures).
  • You will have to not only select the power of the electric motor, but also the gear ratio of the gearbox. Plus, to mount the automation circuit with the installation of the appropriate elements (buttons, starter, and so on). All this greatly complicates the manufacture of the machine.

Conclusion - for a home forge, a snail is enough, with which you can bend metal products manually. Anyone who understands all the nuances of its design and understands at least something in electrical engineering will be able to independently install an electric drive on it.

Making a snail

Several devices are shown in the figure. Approximately so (basically) it should turn out.

Assembling a snail with your own hands is one of the options for self-design, when it makes no sense to give recommendations indicating the exact parameters of all components. Here you need to focus on your own idea of ​​\u200b\u200bwhat and how it will bend (radii, the number of turns of the spiral, and so on). But if the essence of the manufacturing process becomes clear, then the assembly itself will not cause difficulties.

desktop device

The cold forging process requires a lot of effort. If you already have a finished workbench, then you may have to strengthen it. When making a snail from scratch, the table frame is made only of metal - a channel, a corner, a thick-walled pipe.

It is clear that the countertop must also be metal. During the operation of the cochlea, it will be subjected to both static and dynamic loads. Therefore, an ordinary iron sheet is not suitable. Only a plate, and not less than 4 mm.


Marking and installation of "mounted" equipment

Perhaps the most creative stage of work. You can do everything with your own hands. But how, taking into account the prospect or limiting the production of the same type of samples?

Option 1. The easiest. The meaning of the operation is that a spiral outline is drawn on the tabletop.

In fact, this is a sketch of future figured parts, for example, from a bar. After that, it is enough to cut out several segments from thick strip iron, bent along the radius. They are welded to the tabletop, and the bending mechanism is basically ready.

Someone will find this performance more attractive - with a solid strip.

But practice shows that it is more difficult to work with such a snail. For example, when removing a finished product from it, certain difficulties will arise.

Option 2. The same, but several contours are drawn. Holes are drilled along each, in which threads are cut. It remains only to prepare templates for the stop segments. With their own hands they are made, as a rule, from thick cardboard or plywood.


Overlays are made from metal on them, in which, after the next marking, holes are also drilled, coinciding with the landing “nests” in the plate. This design will allow to organize the production of spiral blanks with different radii on one table. It will only be necessary, depending on the shape of the bend, to install the corresponding segments in certain places. Their fastening to the base is bolted. You can do it differently. Instead of such stops, put cylindrical ones.

For fixing, they are attracted by bolts (from the bottom of the plate) or are made immediately with legs (+ thread) and screwed into the tabletop. Much more comfortable with them. And if you have your own, then carving it with your own hands is a matter of a couple of hours.

Option 3. Prepare several removable modules, which can be changed as needed.

Snail assembly

A ploughshare is installed, levers are attached, a side stop. All this is clearly seen in the figures.

Everything that is in the barn (garage, in the attic) will go into action - trimming pipes, rods, corners, and the like. If the principle of the snail's operation is clear, then no more hints are required.

Health check

This is always implied, so no comments.

In principle, making a snail for cold forging is not so difficult. Moreover, there is no single standard for such devices. Someone will say - isn't it easier to buy factory model? First, as already mentioned, you have to look for a long time. Secondly, it is not a fact that its capabilities will coincide with the fantasies of the master. Thirdly, you will have to lighten your wallet by about 19,000 (manual) and 62,000 (electric) rubles, at least.

Good luck in making a snail with your own hands!

One way to decorate areas is to use forged products. Fences, benches, gazebos, stair railings and other similar structures look very decorative. Moreover, in most cases, these products are not forging in its traditional sense. Most often this is done not in a forge and not with a hammer and anvil, but with the help of some devices that allow you to create a wide variety of patterns and products from metal strips and square bars. For the manufacture of such products, cold forging machines will be required. Some of them can be made with your own hands, others are easier to buy.

Fences, railings for stairs and balconies - you can also do it yourself Porch railings - an ornament, not an exclusively utilitarian device

What kind of devices are used

Cold forging is characterized by various curls, bends, twisted rods, etc. Almost every type is made on a separate device - a specific machine. The drive they can be manual, or maybe electric. For small volumes “for themselves”, manual cold forging machines are used. Although they are not very productive, they are much easier to manufacture. If it is necessary to put production on stream, similar devices are made, but with electric motors. In this case, it is almost not necessary to work physically, but the complexity of manufacturing the device increases significantly. In our material, we will talk about manual machines for cold forging.

What devices are used:

  • Torsion. With their help, tetrahedral bars or strips of metal are twisted in the longitudinal direction. It turns out twisted columns, which are also called torsion bars.

  • Flashlight. On this device, the bar is also twisted in the longitudinal direction, only it is additionally bent in the transverse direction. It turns out something similar to a flashlight. Hence the name of the device.

    This is how a flashlight is made

  • Twisters or snails. Form flat curls of different diameters.

    Device for cold forging snail - for forming curls

  • Bending machines or benders. Allows you to bend rods or rebar at the required angle in any place.

    For bending anywhere and at any angle - bending machines (bending machines)

  • Wave. In fact, this is also a gnutik, but more complex design- it allows you to change the direction of the bend, getting wavy details.

    Machine "Wave" - ​​for the formation of the appropriate relief

  • Devices for processing the ends of parts - inertial stamping machines or other home-made devices.

    Machines for finishing the ends of bars. In this case, goose foot

For a novice craftsman, the most relevant cold forging machine is a snail. Only with its help you can make a lot of interesting things - from a fence and a gate to a bench and others. similar products. In second place, according to the degree of need, is a torsion machine. It adds variety to the details. All the rest can be acquired or made as you improve and gain skill.

Homemade "Snails"

In fact, this is a modernized one), but these improvements make it easy to make curls from fairly thick bars (with a cross section of up to 10-12 mm) and repeat them with a high degree of accuracy.

These cold forging machines have several designs, but the easiest option to implement is a round table with a central leg. A lever with rollers on bearings at the end is movably fixed to the leg. They make the bending process easier.

The surface of the table can be made of steel sheet with a thickness of 10 mm or more. For the leg, you can use any thick-walled round pipe. It is important to make the structure stable, as lateral forces will be applied, therefore side racks, struts, as well as a stable base are needed.

Drawing machine for cold forging "Snail"

The lever is easier to make from square pipe with a thick wall - not less than 2-3 mm. Pipe section 25*40mm or so. The lever can be attached to the leg on a bearing, or you can simply take a small piece of thick-walled pipe larger diameter, put it on the leg, and weld a stop strip from below - so that the lever does not fall down. The bearing option gives easier movement, but with lubrication, the second option is also working.

The shape of the lever is also important. The lever is double, the upper part is working, the lower one is supporting. Wherever there are connections, it is desirable to add reinforcement, since the efforts are significant.

A mandrel or jig is fixed on the table - a form along which the curls are bent. They are made in different diameters - so that you can make curls of different diameters. Such mandrels can be prefabricated - to form more bends. Each such sample must have rods that are installed in holes in the table. So this template is fixed. Also, its shape must be designed in such a way that the end of the bar is well fixed in it.

Often, mandrels are machined from a metal circle of a suitable diameter using a grinder, but there are metal options with steel plates welded onto it, curved accordingly.

How to make a similar machine for cold forging - in the next video. There is also a good description of how to bring the ends of the workpiece to a decent state - the usual raw edges look very rough. There is special equipment for processing them, but, as it turned out, you can cope without it.

Torsion machine

As already mentioned, these cold forging machines allow you to make longitudinal bends on the bar. This is a relatively simple design. The main task is to fix one end of the bar motionless, to attach a lever to the second, with which it will be possible to twist the workpiece.

As a basis, a cut of a profiled pipe with a thick wall (at least 3 mm) is suitable. The latch can be welded from the same rods, leaving a square gap of the desired diameter. You can use a cable clamp of a suitable size (can be found at a rigging store). Any of these stops is welded to the base.

Rope holder - great rod holder

Next, you need to somehow ensure the capture and torsion of the second part of the workpiece. This can be done using two bearing assemblies. A pipe of a suitable diameter is inserted inside, on one side a handle is welded to it - the design resembles the letter "T". On the other hand, a retainer is made in the pipe: four holes are drilled, nuts are welded into them for 12 or 14 bolts. The result is a good latch - the bolts are tightened after the bar has been inserted.

An even simpler machine for making torsion bars by cold forging is in the next video.

Video about homemade fixtures and cold forging machines




Forging machines are good tool for artistic and creative people who have a desire to create something beautiful and individual in their home to highlight the interior, or can make a good handmade gift for important people. There are two methods for forging metal. In order to forge something using the hot forging method, it is necessary to make a lot of preparations and actions, therefore, at home, hand forging is most easily given using the cold forging method. The training period for such a process does not take much time, in addition, there is a real opportunity to design a machine with your own hands.

The beginning of cold forging with homemade machines.

Do-it-yourself cold forging requires two mandatory actions - press and bending. To perform all these actions, it is not necessary to give a certain temperature to the metal, but it is still necessary to carry out heat treatment.

To design something with your own hands, it is no longer necessary to have special machines for artistic forging, now you can create metal forging machines at home. But without experience with such tools, you still can’t cope. For all the work to be successful, you need to use metals of a certain thickness.

Homemade machine for cold forging can easily be used to create structures that are much stronger than those that were made by stamping. Do-it-yourself forged products turn out to be of high quality when everything is done correctly and without errors, because it is very difficult to fix them. After a few works, thanks to the experience gained, you can begin to make excellent designs using homemade machines and cold forging fixtures.

In the manufacture a large number identical metal structures, it is best to use the drawings prepared in advance. Do-it-yourself drawings for cold forging machines are prepared in advance. In some cases, it will be better to warm up the part in order to get rid of defects in the future. Those who not so long ago began to use home-made cold forging machines should first consider a work plan, as well as acquire the necessary skills. The help of various video lessons on the Internet, as well as special courses, will not be superfluous here.

Machine components and necessary tools.

A do-it-yourself forging machine consists of certain devices. Among which must be:

  1. gnutik;
  2. snail;
  3. wave;
  4. globe;
  5. twister;
  6. flashlight;

These devices are the best to use. A do-it-yourself snail for cold forging is needed for weaving steel bars. You can see the photo to better see the design and an example of the details. Forging equipment for cold forging of metal plays an important role in the work. The main tool during the work will be the gnutik. This is a very simple element.


To process pipes with a hexagonal and round section, a "wave" is used. Metal rods are bent with a “flashlight”, and the twister is somewhat similar to it, a very convenient device. The globe makes a large arc of profile rods.

Cold forging machines are most profitable to do yourself, because not everything can be processed with hand tools, and the price for an artistic forging machine is very high. When the master, using his skills and equipment, creates a design, it will be unique and special, even if in some ways it will not be as high quality as the factory one. When manufacturing a large number of parts, it will be correct to create an encoder on an electric motor. This makes the work process easier.
A do-it-yourself cold forging machine must be adapted for such types of work as bending, twisting and drawing.

In the process of drawing, the structure takes on a certain shape. Therefore, it must pass through the press, after which the cross section of the primary material will become smaller. Flexible means creating a bent at the desired angle. This will require templates. A photo of drawings of forged products with your own hands is prepared in advance from which a template will be made. A curl is attached to the steel plate, and the sheet itself is fixed in the machine holder. A slot is placed at the end of the workpiece, while the other end is fixed in place. Using a lever, there is an influence on the end of the structure, which must be carried out along each bend of the plate, which is used as a template.

Video of a homemade machine for bending balusters.

Many experienced manufacturers personally assemble simple mechanisms that allow you to create unique designs. This is influenced by work experience. Drawings for do-it-yourself cold forging machines can be found in sufficient quantities on the Internet, as well as photos of cold forging products that can be obtained as a result. A photograph of such equipment allows the master to complete a drawing from scratch, if he has experience.

You can consider the machine "Snail". Using it, you can create various spirals or waves. To create such a machine, you need to have drawings for a do-it-yourself cold forging machine of this type, as well as do everything in accordance with the technology. The work surface must be made of sheet metal. 4 mm thickness will be enough. Dimensions are set based on the size of the part. For shaping, sheet metal 3 mm thick and in the form of strips is required. It is bent according to the pattern with pliers and a spiral is obtained.

To create a normal work process, you need to fix one of the ends of the part well. A rod equal to the width of the strips will help with this. To fix the work platform, you will need to use a workbench. The main goal of everything is to give the part maximum immobility, because during cold forging you need to make a lot of effort.

Before starting to manufacture any cold forging machine, tools for self made we need templates, sketches and various drawings, including a drawing for do-it-yourself cold forging equipment.

To give better accuracy to the markup, you can use graph paper. You need to draw a spiral on it, where the turns in the radius will increase. An equal distance must be properly maintained between them. Such a condition will be mandatory only to create symmetrical patterns.

Machine design.

To create any machine, you can use several options to choose from - collapsible, monolithic or solid. It is recommended to weld small bars along the entire length of the future machine. On the working site, it is worth drilling special holes for this. It is required to well fix the ends of the parts that will bend.
This forging method is very popular with blacksmith beginners.

Using a machine for cold forging metal made by hand, an inexperienced craftsman will be able to make forged balcony canopies, handrails for stairs, various window grilles, fences, numerous home furniture, fences, various forged accessories and decor items that complement the interior of the premises, on like grills for fireplaces. This is a good option for beginners.

Collection of drawings of machines for cold forging.

Drawing for a snail with a plowshare.

The drawing shows a device for a bending snail with a plowshare and the rules for working with it.


Detailed drawing of a snail machine.

Drawing device for bending "Clamp".



Drawing fixture Gnutik.



Video of cold forging equipment for small businesses.

  • Advantages of cold forging
  • Forging machine "Snail"
  • Device Assembly

Making a cold forging machine with your own hands may be necessary if you like tinkering and are not averse to making something beautiful for your home interior, country estate, for gifts to relatives and friends, and just for the soul.


Cold forging allows you to make beautiful and high-quality metal products with your own hands.

The majestic beauty of products made by the forging method captivates the eye and beckons with graceful lines. In all the best houses, one could certainly find such decorations as openwork metal curls. And in our time, when a considerable number of various technologies and materials have been developed, forged products have not lost their relevance.

Products obtained using forging are used in design along with plastic, glass and other decorative elements. Metal forging is done by hot or cold method. To perform work using the hot method, it is necessary to fulfill a lot of special conditions, so it is not so easy to do it at home. A more accessible method is cold. It is easier to learn it, and the equipment and machines for forging can be made independently if desired.

Advantages of cold forging

With the cold forging method, the main work processes are bending and pressing. To carry out such events, it is not necessary to inform the metal of a certain temperature. But some heat treatment must still be carried out between the stages of the operation.

It is not necessary to have full-fledged equipment for artistic forging at your disposal; many amateurs make some tools on their own. Using homemade devices, you can give products different bizarre shapes. You just need to acquire some working skills. Be prepared for the fact that in order to bend the desired shape, effort will be required. Carrying out work is possible only with the use of raw materials of a certain thickness.

Products obtained using cold forging equipment are stronger than those that are cast or made by stamping. This happens because the metal rods passing through the tooling are pressed simultaneously with giving them desired shape. With this forging method, mistakes must be avoided, because. they are almost unrepairable. With experience, you will be able to create wonderful and attractive products at home.

Using equipment for cold forging of metal, you can create the following products:

  • window bars;
  • elements like handrails for stairs, balcony canopies;
  • home furniture - beds, chairs, tables;
  • fences and fences;
  • elements used in the design of apartments: tripods for flowers, crates of fireplaces.

When hot forging, the master will need not only a special room, but also blacksmith equipment, as well as some special conditions. With the cold method of work, it is not necessary to preheat the workpiece, and the process itself is more economical. When processing a whole batch of the same type of elements at home, you can do everything with the help of stencils. Thus, it is possible to significantly reduce production time and reduce labor costs. Sometimes products have to be heated, heating is performed at the joints so that unevenness is not obtained. Beginning craftsmen are advised to think carefully about the execution plan before starting work, it would be useful to make a sketch of the desired product.

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Equipment and tools for forging

Hand tooling for performing cold forging operations includes several elements. The main equipment that you may need for work:

  • snail;
  • twister;
  • wave;
  • gnutik;
  • flashlight;
  • globe.

Some names may seem funny, but they are quite convenient for home use fixtures.

The main tool for work is a bender, it is designed to change the shape of the metal. It is used to bend the product under right angle or bending arcs with different radii.

The snail is used more often for twisting metal rods in a spiral. It is a tool for bending strips, bars, squares no more than 12 mm, tubes and profiles to spiral shapes, products with different radii and shapes. When using such a tool, you can not limit the formed spiral in radius and make the value that is necessary.

Fork - two conductors for bending currencies, used for hot and cold forging. The thickness of the raw material can be a maximum of 16 mm with the hot method, and 10 mm with the cold method.

A tool called "flashlight" is used to bend metal elements. It is used to process metal rods with a diameter of 30 mm or less, or square profiles with a thickness of 16 mm or less.

With the help of such a device as a wave, wave-like curved elements are performed. It is also used for processing tubes having a round or hexagonal section, and for tubes made of profiles.

The twister is somewhat reminiscent of a flashlight, with the help of both tools, you can twist the rods around the longitudinal axis.

The globe helps to make a large arc from a square profile up to 12 mm thick. At the same time, the ends of the workpiece are also smoothly bent. This is how various convex decorating elements are created.

This kind of tool for cold forging is quite simple, so you can often find home-made ones. It is practically in no way inferior to the purchased one.

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DIY forging equipment

Often, when working, it seems more appropriate to make home-made machines for cold forging. Not every element can be fully processed using only hand forging tools. And the cost of such equipment is rather big, even if we are talking about a simple snail machine.

If a home craftsman makes a product on a self-made jig, the thing will turn out to be unique, although in some respects it will be inferior to the one made in industrial conditions. When it is planned to produce a considerable number of parts using cold forging, it is more expedient to make a jig with an electric motor. This way you can make your work easier.

It would be useful to provide for the execution of the main types of work on the machine - twisting, bending, drawing. These devices can be combined when creating a conductor with your own hands.

During the drawing operation, the workpiece is given a certain shape. To do this, it must be passed through a press or rollers, while the cross section of the source material will decrease.

The bending process consists in the fact that the workpiece is bent at the desired angle. You can perform this operation using templates. They must be done as follows: a sketch of the part is prepared, according to which the template is then executed. Weld a curl onto a metal plate, then such a sheet is fixed on the machine in a holder. The end of the workpiece is inserted into the slot, the second is fixed (in some cases, you can simply hold it). With the help of a lever, one of the ends of the workpiece is acted upon, which should be dragged along all the bends along the plate used as a template.

When creating a template, the welding seam must be carried out from the outside, otherwise it will interfere with the further use of the product.

Many craftsmen independently assemble not very complex devices with which you can perform quite intricate products. It all depends on the working skills of the master. You can consider one of these homemade models to get to the bottom of how it works.

A home-made cold forging machine can come in handy if you like tinkering and you are not averse to making something beautiful with your own hands for a country estate, home interior, for gifts to relatives and friends, or just for fun.

The majestic appearance of products made by the forging method beckons with graceful lines and captivates the eye. Since ancient times, in all best houses, one could certainly see such decorations as metal tracery curls. And even today, when a huge number of various materials and technologies have been developed, Forged Products have not lost their relevance.

Products made by forging are used in design along with glass, plastic and other decorative elements. Forging of metal occurs in a cold or hot way. For hot forging process many special conditions must be met Therefore, it is very difficult for her to study at home. More accessible way is artistic cold forging. It is much easier to learn it, and if you wish, you can make home-made cold forging machines with your own hands.

With cold forging, two main processes are required:

  • press;
  • bending.

To carry out these activities, you do not need to tell the metal some temperature. But a certain heat treatment still must occur between the stages of work.

It is not necessary to have full-fledged artistic forging machines at your disposal; amateurs often make tools with their own hands. With the help of home-made equipment, you can give blanks all sorts of bizarre shapes. You just need to acquire certain skills to work. Therefore, get ready for the fact that in order to bend the required figure, drawings and considerable effort will be needed. Work can only be carried out using raw materials of the required thickness.

Products that are obtained using a homemade cold forging machine are much stronger than those that are made or cast using stamping. This is due to the fact that the metal rods that pass through the tooling are pressed together to give them the desired shape. With this forging method, you need make no mistakes because they are practically uncorrectable. With the acquisition of skills, you will be able to create attractive and wonderful products with your own hands.

Using a homemade cold forging machine, you can make products such as:

  • elements like balcony canopies, handrails for stairs;
  • bars on the windows;
  • fences and fences;
  • home furniture - tables, chairs, beds;
  • elements that are used in the design of the house: crates of fireplaces, tripods for flowers.

During hot forging, the master needs not only a separate room, but also equipment for blacksmithing, as well as special conditions. With the cold method, there is no need to preheat the workpiece, and the process itself is much more economical.

When processing a large batch of the same type of products with your own hands, everything can be done using stencils and a drawing. Thus, it is possible to significantly reduce labor costs and reduce production time. Sometimes parts need to be heated, heating is done at the joints so that there is no curvature. For beginners it is recommended to carefully consider the manufacturing plan before performing work, it would be useful to have a video lesson and complete a drawing of the future product.

Tools and equipment

A manual cold forging machine includes a number of elements. Necessary devices that will be needed for work:

  • twister;
  • snail;
  • gnutik;
  • wave;
  • globe;
  • flashlight.

Many names will seem funny, but these are quite convenient for homemade use fixtures.

The main tool for work will be a bender, which is used to change the shape of the metal. Its function is to bend the part at the required angle or bend arcs with different radii.

The snail is used, as a rule, for twisting steel rods into a spiral. This is a tool for bending bars, strips, tubes, squares and profiles to a spiral shape, products with various forms and radius. While using this tool you can not limit the radius of the created spiral and make it the size you want.

The flashlight tool is necessary for bending metal parts. With it, metal bars are processed, the cross section of which is less than 30 mm, or square profiles with a cross section of less than 16 mm.

With the help of a device such as a wave, wave-shaped curved elements are made. Apply it and for pipe processing, which have a hexagonal or round cross section.

Twister is similar to a flashlight. With these two tools, you can unscrew the rods around the axis.

With the help of a globe you can make a large arc from a profile rod up to 12 mm thick. Moreover, the ends of the workpiece are also smoothly bent.

This tool for cold forging is absolutely not complicated, so you can often see homemade ones. It is almost in no way inferior to the factory one.

Forging machines

Often, when working, it seems much more expedient to make machines for cold forging with your own hands. Since not every element can be fully processed using only manual forging equipment. Yes and the price of this equipment is quite high, even when it comes to the simplest snail machine.

If a home craftsman makes some product on a self-made conductor, then the thing will be unique, although in some respects it will be inferior to the one made in the factory. If you plan to make a large number of parts using cold forging, then it is best to make a jig with an electric motor. This will make your workflow easier.

It will be useful to provide for the manufacture of the main types of work on the machine - drawing, bending and twisting. These devices can be combined while creating a do-it-yourself conductor.

During the drawing, the product is given a certain shape. Why should it be passed through rollers or a press, and the cross section of the feedstock will decrease.

The bending process consists in the fact that the part is bent at the required angle. You can perform this operation using templates. They are made in this way: a drawing of the product is prepared, according to which a template is then made. Weld a curl onto a steel plate, after which this sheet is mounted on a machine in a holder. The end of the workpiece is installed in the slot, the second end is fixed. With the help of a lever, one end of the product is affected, which must be dragged along all the bends of the plate used as a template.

When making a template, the welding seam must be carried out from the outside, otherwise it will interfere with the further operation of the product.

Often, craftsmen themselves assemble simple devices, with which you can make quite original products. It all depends on the experience of the master. Consider one of these homemade models to understand the principle itself.

Do-it-yourself forging machine "Snail"

With the help of this machine, home craftsmen make all kinds of rings and spirals, curls, waves. To make this kind of machine, you need to act according to drawings and technology which includes a number of steps.

Before making any fixtures, hand tools or artistic forging machines, you need to make graphic images, templates, sketches, drawings of the future fixture.

To make the markup more accurate, it is best to use graph paper. Draw a spiral on it, in which the radius of the turns gradually increases. The same pitch must be observed between the turns. It must be said that this condition must be observed only in cases where the symmetry of the patterns is needed, as a rule, no more than 4 pieces are made.

Also consider what kind of blanks you need to work with. The distance between the turns must be made so that it slightly exceeds the diameter of the metal rods, otherwise it will be difficult to get the finished product out of the machine.

For working surface sheet metal will be needed. A thickness of four millimeters is enough. Sizing is based on dimensions. necessary details. To make a mold, you will need sheet metal in the form of strips three millimeters thick. This material can be worked with hand tools. It is simply bent according to the pattern into a spiral with the help of pliers.

To create a full-fledged work process, it is necessary to make a secure fixation of one end of the product. Here you need a piece of rod, which is equal to the width of the strips. A workbench is required to fix the work platform. Often a piece of thick-walled pipe is used as a rack. Main - ensure maximum grip, since during cold forging, the forces applied are quite large.

Machine assembly

To make any cold forging machine, there are many options. It can be made collapsible, monolithic or solid. With a monolithic design, the entire device or parts of the "Snail" are welded to the site.

Along the length of the structure you can weld small pieces of rods with a distance of 5-6 cm, special holes must be made for them in the working platform. Do not forget to carefully fasten the ends of the products that you will bend.

Cold forging is especially popular among blacksmith beginners. For the manufacture of products in this way, neither a well-equipped workshop is needed (you can get by with a garage or a barn), nor extensive experience, no special knowledge about the behavior of metals is needed. As far as fixtures are concerned, All necessary machines and tools can be made by hand at home.

Let's look at the types of devices and the shapes that can be obtained with their help. We have prepared drawings and thematic videos for you. We will also consider the sequence of manufacturing a machine for cold forging with our own hands.

If you are just starting a cold forging workshop and want to avoid high costs, then making your own machines and fixtures will help you create your own small business without excessive costs.

Basic fixtures and machines

Cold forging machines are mainly designed for bending in an arc or angle, as well as for twisting. They can be manual or electrically powered.

The main types of machines and devices for cold forging:

  • "Gnutik"
  • "Twister"
  • "Snail"
  • "Globe"
  • "Wave"
  • "Flashlight"

Device "Gnutik"

Purchased or self-made "Gnutik" is a universal device that allows you to get an arc or angle from a rod. It is a base with a slider, on which a stop with an angle (90° or another as needed) and two cylindrical fixed stops is fixed. By moving the slider and the corner stop, the rod is bent at an angle. To obtain an arc, a third cylinder is provided, rotating on the side opposite from the corner stop.

The fixture can be made on a horizontal or vertical platform.


Axonometry of the device "Gnutik" - vertical arrangement

To scale the dimensions, here is a drawing of the lower bar of this "Gnutik".


Bottom bar

This device is universal. With the help of nozzles on it, you can not only bend, but also cut and punch holes. But that will be the next step.


Obtaining an arc on the "Gnutik"


Getting a corner on the "Gnutik"

It looks like a homemade "Gnutik":


Device "Twister"

"Twister" - a tool for twisting bars, mostly square section, along the longitudinal axis. This simple device can be manual and electric. Principle of operation: both ends of the rod are fixed, then one fastener begins to turn, twisting the metal to the required shape.


The appearance of the purchased manual "Twister"

See a photo of a homemade "Twister" with an electric drive, assembled using used electrical equipment:


For the manufacture of "Lanterns" and "Cones" there is a special machine, but for starters, you can use the "Twister", as shown in the video (English, but everything is very clear).

Video 1. How to make a blank for "Flashlight" on "Twister"

Device "Snail"

The Snail tool is designed to create swirls (or spirals) and "currencies" (S-shaped parts). There are various designs.


One of the design options: 1 - snail plowshare; 2 - the basis of the machine; 3 - pressure roller; 4 - lever for controlling the pressure roller; 5 - base fastening; 6 - a finger for fixing the plowshares; 7 - groove for the pressure roller; 8 - axis of the control lever; 9 - spring for pressing the roller; 10 - clamp for the workpiece; 11 - leading share of the snail; 12 - main axis; 13 - levers

The result should be something like this:


Another one lightweight construction to bend rolled products with a cross section of up to 12 mm:


1 - cochlea segment; 2 - eccentric; 3 - handle; 4 - base; 5 - guide skids; 6 - axis; 7 - slider; 8 - axle nut; 9 - roller mounting axis; 10 - roller; 11 - drive axle; 12 - eccentric guide; 13 - central segment of the cochlea; 14 - eccentric lamb; 15 - main leg; 16 - connecting pin of cochlea segments; 17 - corrective screw; 18 - connecting ear of the cochlea segments

Often the “Snail” fixture is made on a support, especially if you need to bend thick rolled products.


Several useful videos on home-made machines "Snails".

Option with a massive base on a support:

Video 2. Making the base

Video 3. Making a snail

Video 4. Machine operation

Table fixture option:

Video 5. Part 1

Video 5. Part 2

We will discuss these structures in more detail below.

Device "Globe"

Such a device looks like a school protractor and is designed to make arcs with a large bending radius from a strip, square, circle or hexagon. First, one end of the workpiece is fixed with a bend, then it is bent along the entire length according to the template. The principle of operation is somewhat similar to the operation of a canning machine for conservation.


Device appearance

Video 6. Work on the "Globe"

Using exclusively muscular strength, the arc large diameter can be made on a template screwed or welded to a workbench. It is good to bend a strip on it, a thin-walled pipe, etc.


Device "Wave"

You can get wave-shaped products from a workpiece of a round, square, hexagonal section or a tube using the “Wave” fixture. The deformation of the workpiece occurs between the vertical rolls by scrolling.


Wave fixture and resulting products

Video 7. Device in action

Device "Flashlight"

On this machine, blanks of the “Lanterns” or “Cones” elements are made, which can consist of 4, 6, 8 or more bars. According to the principle of operation, the machine is similar to the Twister, but here the workpieces are bent around the guide shaft, which forms a more correct and accurate configuration of the product.


Device "Flashlight"

Video 8. The work of the device for making "Flashlight"

Device for cold forging of the "Clamp" element

The cold forging element "Clamp" is intended for fixing other structural elements among themselves.


The device for bending the "Clamp" can be made according to the attached drawings.



Devices for performing "crow's feet"

"Houndstooth" - flattening with the application of beautiful notches on the ends of the blanks to give more elegance to the design or to reduce the thickness for various joints.


The ends of the elements are decorated with a "goose foot"

This operation can be performed using a machine tool with a die or fixture and a heavy blacksmith's hammer on an anvil. We provide both options in the form of videos.

Video 9. Machine for making " crow's feet»

Video 10. Devices for forging "crow's feet"

Video 11. Detailed stamp making process

Below is a rolling machine to perform the same operation.


Machine for rolling "goose foot" (the distance between the rollers is adjustable). Materials for a rolling machine: gears and shafts - used combine harvester spare parts


Operating principle

Production of "Snails" with a drive

The electric "snail" facilitates the production of curls and "currencies". This is especially valuable when the work is not “for the soul”, but for the manufacture of a large number of the same type of products on a stream when working to order.

Below are the steps for assembling a machine for bending a rod with a maximum section of 10x10 mm. The 0.5 kW/1000 rpm engine is working at the limit of its capabilities. Performs 6 shaft revolutions per minute. The segments of the snail are machined from a round blank St.45 without heat treatment, 25 mm high and 20 mm thick. The snail is mounted on a shaft on bearings from the rear wheel of the motorcycle - 7204. The supporting roller is fixed rigidly in the groove. Pulleys are installed between the motor and the gearbox.



Below are the drawings of the segments of the cochlea.


Snail element 1


snail element 2


Snail element 3


The central element of the snail

For a more massive rod (from 12 mm), the engine power should be more than a kilowatt. The photographs below show a machine with a 2.2 kW, 1000 rpm motor, giving a shaft output of about 10 rpm. This is a machine for professional use. A used gearbox was used, the matrix was cut from a workpiece 30 mm thick - the most time-consuming process.



For cold forging, you will also need an anvil and a hammer. The forge is not needed, it is required only for hot forging.

Advice! Before starting work, draw a full-size sketch of the future structure. This will help to adjust the elements and not get confused during assembly.

You can make machines for cold forging from improvised materials.

Since universal fixtures from manufacturers are quite expensive, a self-made cold forging machine will be an excellent solution for people involved in the manufacture of forged products.

Today, metal structures with a unique design and bold architectural forms are used to equip houses in cottage settlements.

Figuratively curved forged elements of gates, fences and wickets bring an unusual image to the landscape design of the estate.

On the proposed photos you can see what an unusual artistic look the metal structures create.

What parts can be made on a cold forging machine

Cold forging, unlike hot technology, is simple and safe. This process does not require the use of hot metal and the exact observance of the operating temperature.

You can make a do-it-yourself cold forging machine specifically for the manufacture of a certain type of part.

Also, a home-made machine will allow you to solve a wide variety of tasks, so it will be simply universal.

With the help of a home-made machine, it will be possible to achieve the ideal geometry of metal elements for an individual design idea and make original details with a pattern yourself.

In the process of cold decorative forging, as a rule, soft metal is used - it can be nickel and magnesium alloys, steel, copper or brass.

Otherwise, the range of products produced on the machine will be limited only by the imagination and the ability of the master.

Optionally, you can make openwork elements for stairs, gates and fences with your own hands.

The use of decorative details will allow you to decorate fireplaces and barbecues, beautifully decorate the outer walls of the house and the gazebo, make original tripods for flowers, as in the photo.

Types of equipment for cold forging

Existing types of machine tools can be operated with the participation of an electric motor or manual power.

The first version of the fixture makes it possible to do the job faster than manual machines, but at the same time it requires certain skills from the master.

Forging machines for forging are divided into types:

  • snail - a machine with separate removable parts or a solid one - it is used when making spiral separate parts;
  • universal fixture - used for cutting, riveting and giving volume to the product;
  • bending - with its help you can make arc bending of metal or bending parts at a certain angle;
  • device for forming rings;
  • twister - allows you to bend the product along the axis;
  • press - for the formation of a matrix print on the product;
  • wave - to obtain wave-like elements from metal rods.

Manufacturing of the machine "Snail"

Using the list of tools and metal parts below, you can assemble a one-piece snail machine.

For work you will need:

  • metal rods;
  • sheets and strips of steel;
  • profile steel pipe;
  • welding, pliers, grinder.


Drawings and step-by-step diagram, as well as viewing a thematic video, will allow you to get a high-quality fixture with the necessary parameters:

  • Using a sheet of paper, draw on it the image of a spiral with three turns. Next, check the dimensions so that as a result a reinforced rod with a diameter of 10 mm fits into the thread;
  • Using a grinder, cut out two plates from a steel sheet. The first should have parameters 100x100 mm, the second - 130x130 mm;
  • Take a 3 cm rod and three steel strips. The edges of the cuts of all used parts must be cleaned with emery to get rid of burrs;
  • Using pliers, bend the steel strips according to the template, as a result you will have three spiral parts with different lengths;
  • With the help of welding, all elements of the machine are welded according to the scheme, it is recommended to carry out welding work with high quality, since the life of the tool will depend on them;
  • The steel pipe is welded last from the bottom in the center of the machine.

As a result of the work carried out, equipment for cold forging of metal should be obtained, as in the photo.

If no one experiences difficulties when decorating any interior elements with cutting profile pipes, then if necessary, bending them, on the contrary, everything becomes more complicated.

Special bending machines for pipes, which can be done in advance with your own hands, will allow you to carry out such work qualitatively and quickly.

Drawings for the manufacture of this type of equipment can be used differently, depending on what materials will be used in the work.

It is difficult at first glance to assemble a production-type machine for cold forging metal, as in the photo.


But if the master, working with metal, has already managed to gain experience, nothing is impossible for him. The main thing is to choose a solid stable foundation for the future design.

For example, it can be a massive metal table made on the basis of pipes or a profile.

Since the bending of the metal will occur due to the shafts present in the structure, it is necessary to select three such elements.

Each of them is a metal cylinder with thick walls and an axis of rotation. Two cylinders are fixed slightly above the table, and the third, the central one, is placed above them.

The distance between the two extreme cylinders determines at what angle the pipe will be bent.

In order to be able to change the position of the cylinders if necessary, it is necessary to make additions to the design drawings in the form of stoppers and rollers that will make this part adjustable.

After the cylinders are fixed, it is necessary to organize a rotation transmission system for them.

For this purpose, they use a chain mechanism from an old car, which can be found on the spare parts market.

It is better if the mechanism is equipped with gears, if not, then they will have to be purchased separately.

Gears are mounted on two extreme cylinders and a tensioner placed below the shafts in the center. Then one of the extreme cylinders is equipped with a handle in order to create a rotating force.

The machine for cold forging of metal products is ready. The following video will help to supplement the above material with details.

How to make a torsion machine

A machine for cold forging of torsion-type products is used to twist metal spirals in the form of a snake.

It is difficult to work with such a device manually, therefore, most often for the manufacture of a torsion bar, drawings with electrical versions of machine tools are used.

In order to properly assemble the torsion bar, we suggest watching the video and reading the guide below.

Tools and materials for machine assembly:

  • steel sheet;
  • I-beam;
  • vice and fasteners;
  • gearbox, electric motor, chain;
  • Bulgarian;
  • welding.

Sequence diagram:

  • An I-beam will serve as the basis, to one side of which it is necessary to weld a steel sheet;
  • Then a vice is attached to the steel, welded and fixed with bolts and nuts;
  • So that when tensioning a metal product does not jump out of the machine, plates are attached to the vice from below and from above;
  • The other side of the I-beam is equipped with rollers, on which, subsequently, the platform is mounted;
  • Other vices with movable main elements are attached to the surface of the resulting structure. In this case, both structures located along the edges of the I-beam should be located on the same level;
  • Further, the structure is equipped with a steel handle made of a rod; due to its rotation, the product will bend;
  • Using bolts, connect the reduction gear and the motor. The wheel rim is equipped with a chain;
  • The structure is covered with a steel casing.

As a result of the actions taken, a machine with two blocks is obtained - a movable and a fixed one.

Forged hardware in any interior they add color and look very aesthetically pleasing. But not every owner of a house or cottage wants to have standard solutions that the market offers. In addition, there are forged decorative elements very expensive.

Homemade device for cold forging

Hot forging requires serious skills, equipment and work space. The ideal solution to realize your design fantasies are cold forging tools. Buying such machines is not affordable for everyone, but making a device on your own is not so difficult.

1 Advantages of cold forging

When processing metal in this way, it does not require heating. Therefore, no furnaces, temperature exposure, hot metal skills, special working areas, etc. are required. In addition, there is no danger of serious burns.

Cold Forging Tools include bending and pressing metal. Machines for performing these processes can be either electric (you will need an electric motor and a gearbox) or manual. They are easy to make with your own hands, to maintain. The design of the units themselves is absolutely elementary, but it is worth knowing that the manual forging process itself requires considerable effort from the worker.

Unlike decorative elements obtained by processing hot metal, a cold forged product, if necessary, can always be remade. It unbends just as easily as it bends.

To give a curved shape to the metal on the machine does not require the creation of a high temperature

The method of creating decorative elements from metal without heating is very convenient when you need to make a lot of the same. In this case, a home-made device is made for a specific pattern with specific dimensions and template actions are performed.

The bending machine significantly saves time, effort and financial costs for the equipment of the premises and the very performance of metal processing work.

1.1 Purpose of the device

The device for cold forging allows you to perform absolutely all the work, performed by a blacksmith for processing hot metal. Hand tools perfectly cope with the production of such decorative elements as:

  • window bars;
  • constructive for handrails of stairs, benches, chairs;
  • legs, bylets and other elements of home furniture;
  • construction of various fences, gates, gates;
  • stands for flowers, fireplace grates, shelves and much more.

The cold forging process uses only soft metals such as aluminium, duralumin, steel, copper, brass, magnesium and nickel alloys.

Examples of products made using the cold forging method

1.2 Varieties of units

To create a decorative forged metal interior, you will need several types of parts. Among them are spiral rods, arcs, spirals, various details from sheet metal.

It is almost impossible to make a universal machine for cold forging with your own hands, therefore, to create each element you will have to make a separate device. These devices include the following units:

  1. Gnutik. Allows you to make metal arcs, curved at a certain angle.
  2. Snail. Such a device is intended for bending reinforcing and profile rods into a spiral.
  3. Twister. Tool for bending the rod into a spiral along the axis.
  4. Wave. A device designed to bend a reinforcing or profile bar into a wave element.
  5. Ring. For making rings and ovals.
  6. Press. A device for flattening metal products.
  7. Hammer and anvil. Very useful universal tools to fix flaws.

All units designed to perform the above tasks can be either manual or electric.

Spirals for bending metal rods in a spiral

For the latter to work, you need an electric motor and a gearbox. Electrical machines, having an engine and a gearbox, they perform work much faster and facilitate the fate of the worker himself.
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2 How to make a cold forging machine at home?

Making a machine of any of the above types with your own hands at home is very simple. This does not require any tricky tools or expensive mechanisms and materials. Everything you need for such a device can be found in almost any garage.
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2.1 Materials and tools

Regardless of what kind of device you plan to make, you will need the following materials:

  • sheet metal 4-5 mm thick;
  • reinforcing bars, profile bars or profile pipe;
  • stable bed;
  • if we are going to make not a manual, but an electric bending machine, we will need a low-speed engine and a gearbox.

Homemade cold forging machine

To organize the process of manufacturing a unit for cold forging, you need to stock up on the following tools:

  • "Bulgarian" for cutting metal elements (in case of its absence, we use a saw for metal);
  • welding machine;
  • emery stone and sandpaper;
  • vise and pliers;
  • paper, pencil, marker;
  • tape measure or centimeter.

2.2 Manual machine "snail"

Spiral elements are most often used in creating a "forged" interior. Therefore, we will begin the consideration of the production process with the snail machine.

A home-made electrical unit will require, in addition to the usual set of parts, to use an engine and a gearbox. The gearbox is used to reduce engine speed. But we will talk about this later. In the meantime, consider step by step how to make a manual device.

We also note that one machine can make spirals of different diameters, but this will require a removable snail. This can be achieved in two ways: one-piece metal removable circles with a welded volute, or one circle with removable parts of the spiral.

  1. First we need a sheet of paper and a pencil. We draw on the sheet the snail we need, maintaining all the real dimensions. It should be borne in mind that the thickness of the lines in the diagram must correspond to the thickness of the metal, which is taken to make a spiral(ideally 4-5 mm), and the distance between the turns should be 12-13 mm (for cold forging, rods up to 10 mm are used, which should fit freely into the groove).
  2. From sheet metal, with a thickness of 4 to 10 mm, we cut out a circle with a diameter of 70 cm. If you plan to make only small spirals, a circle can be cut with a smaller diameter. If the elements are larger, cut a circle larger than 70 mm. If the circles are removable, try not to take very thick metal (4-5 mm is enough), as it will be very difficult to change the circles.
  3. In the manual version, the circle must be permanently fixed to the frame, since it is much easier to go around the spiral with metal using a lever than to rotate the circle. Before welding a circle, a metal bar with a diameter of 20-30 mm must be welded to the frame and a bearing should be put on it (all this can be found in old automotive parts).
  4. We make a stand. It can be made from any material. Main requirements: 1) the frame must be strong and firmly fixed to the floor ( the best option- concrete legs). 2) the base should not protrude beyond the working circle in diameter.
  5. We return to the processing of the working circle. We need to attach snail elements to it.

Snail for cold forging

Homemade apparatus for cold forging is ready. You can lay a rod, fix it, rest against it with a bending barrel and go around until you get the desired product.
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2.3 Do-it-yourself cold forging machine 3 in 1 (video)


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2.4 Electrical counterpart

The only difference is that the engine through the reduction gear must rotate the working circle. The bending barrel is welded directly to the circle without affecting the gearbox. Otherwise, the manufacturing principle of the unit is absolutely identical and the gearbox with an electric motor only complements it.

Due to their beauty and sophistication, metal products made by forging have long become very popular. Such decorative elements are quite expensive and it is not always possible to order all the desired decorations for the interior or Vacation home. But, in addition to the hot type of forging, which is needed in order to create metal decorative structures, there is a cold version of it. The latter option can be implemented independently, for this you need to build a cold forging machine with your own hands, after which you can begin to implement all your ideas and ideas.

Do-it-yourself forging machine

Types of machines

Basically, all fixtures that are designed for the manufacture of metal parts using cold forging are characterized by manual drive. Few of them work on the principle of an electric drive, although it is possible to build such a structure with each of the devices. The only question regarding the drive is expediency, because the cost of the energy resource that feeds the unit and the complexity of the installation process of the mechanism may not justify itself if we correlate them with the amount of work performed and its regularity.

The table shows all the devices that work due to the drive manual type relating to the cold forging process.

Device Short description
twisterWith the help of such a device, the metal is twisted, spirals and curls with a narrow core are formed.
Torsion type machinesWith the help of such a machine, screw-type rods are twisted, and it is also possible to manufacture large-sized spirals and filaments (baskets, lanterns and bulbs).
Inertial stamping machinesThey are intended for making connecting parts with decorative components, making patterned tips and various small patterns and reliefs.
Bending machinesThere are several varieties of such machines: pressure, broaching and combined types. The first variety is needed in order to get wavy bends or zigzag bend the rod. The lingering variety is in demand when it is necessary to make a ring, curl or spiral with a wide core. Using the combined variety, you can build any of the listed elements.

Reference: very often in some sources you can find the name of machines designed for torsion as well as for machines that make winding - twisters. However, this is not entirely true, machines that twist metal are torsion-type machines.

Video on the manufacture of a machine for cold forging with your own hands.

Differences of cold forging

There is such a thing as "stamping", which is sometimes confused with cold forging. Cold forging itself has 2 principles by which this process can occur. The table shows the process differences.

Process Description
StampingThe stamping process can be described as the extrusion of certain shapes using a punch that works with high level pressure. An example of a stamping process is an aluminum can. The heating of the metal is not used. It is hardly possible to apply such technology at home, since it is impossible to create the necessary conditions for this.
Cold forging type (riveting)This kind of cold forging, in fact, is hardening, namely, a certain number of blows of a very large force are carried out in the process, which allows the structure of the metal to change and become the required parameters in size and shape. Such manipulation is carried out with the help of a hammer, which can also be built with your own hands.
Cold forging type (bending)Another variety is bending. With this technology, the metal structure remains the same, without changing its characteristics. This type of forging is possible for use at home, for it you just need to start creating a cold forging machine with your own hands.

Cold-type forging, which is carried out according to the principle of bending, is quite simple to do, especially if there is special equipment of a stationary type, which greatly facilitates the process. The advantage of this variety is that you can assemble almost any cold forging machine with your own hands without spending a lot of money on it.

Video review of a manual metal forging machine

Cold forging machines

Each device in order to be able to engage in cold forging has its own characteristics and parameters. In order to easily make a cold forging machine with your own hands, you need to figure out what each of them is.

Machine Device
Bending machines
The design of this device is such that by changing the rollers and wedges, the size of the waves and bends changes. They can bend rods up to 16 mm. The only caveat of this device is that it cannot be made independently, because it requires processing and turning many parts of the exact size. The cost of such a device is low.
twister

The unit works thanks to equipping it with a special template, to which the processed piece of metal is pressed. The pressure must be very high, so those who work on the twister must have sufficient strength for this. In addition, the safety of the template itself is ensured by the presence of a persistent horn (terminal). As for the middle horn, which is otherwise called circumferential, it should be done in such a way that it can change its position and be fixed in it. The efficiency of work depends on this, especially for those who start the process for the first time.
Base with spacersSuch a unit will allow you to make patterns of absolutely any variations. The design itself is very simple and is a plate of durable and reliable material, into which spacers are screwed at a certain distance. For such purposes, bolts with sizes from m8 to m24 can be used. The thickness of the metal in this case depends only on the skill of the one who works on the machine. Basically, such a device is well suited for metal with a thickness of 6 mm.
Snails Loom-twisterwith collar
Such an installation is a base plate on which there is a special coil. Such a coil is used as a template for a future product. The peculiarity of the machine is that the “snail”-template is divided into several parts, which are fixed to each other with the help of special connecting elements, which allows the template to vary in shape during operation, which creates various kinds of waves and bends. There are also disadvantages in this design, because in order to make such a cold forging machine with your own hands, you need to select a very durable material that will not bend over time. Also think over the connecting loops, which are quite vulnerable, given the amount of force with which the entire process of bending the metal takes place.
lever type
In this type of machine "snail" the template is attached very firmly to the base. Due to this fact, his performance is less, however, the reliability is greater. using a special lever, the metal plate is pressed against the template; at the same time, it is necessary to move the mobile roller in the process. To make such a do-it-yourself cold forging machine, you can use steel material, which is distinguished by its strength, and the roller can be made from a conventional roller bearing. In general, the design is similar to a pipe bender.
Torsion machine

Such a device will help well in the helical twisting of the rods. Such a machine is made from the base cylindrical shape made of metal and two fastening and simultaneously twisting elements. It is advisable to equip such a design with a special pair of paws that will not allow the metal being processed to bend inappropriately. The principle of operation on the machine is such that the rod is placed in the elements holding it, clamped from one end, and twisted from the other end using a rotating spindle to right size helical wave.

Electrically driven torsion machine for cold forging

In order to improve not only the efficiency of the cold forging machine by twisting the rods into a helical wave, but also to increase the speed, as well as ensure stability and not be subject to overwork, an electric type drive can be installed.

Working by hand, it is quite difficult to make all the decoration elements from metal rods the same, since the uniformity of the torque in this situation will vary greatly. In order to avoid errors in the manufacture of products, you can use:

  • axle shaft from the car, which is installed on the drive axle;
  • you will also need a differential gear pair;
  • Use a cover for protection.

Of these devices, you can build an electric drive to the torsion bar. Such an engine is better not to exceed power ratings of 900 rpm and 3 kW.

Building a curl for the machine with your own hands

Before you start creating a machine for cold forging with your own hands, you need to be able to calculate the parameters of the template spiral, because there are practically no special programs for such purposes. Such a template should not only be technically literate, but also have an attractive appearance.

The calculation of such a template is based on a logarithmic spiral. Some of the nuances in the construction can be distinguished in the following list:

  • the beginning of the construction is taken at the point R0;
  • the turning radius will be equal to the fixed angle;
  • the indicator of the length of such an angle must be multiplied by the divergence of the coil;
  • the discrepancy in the standard version is basically taken equal to 1.2;
  • for ease of calculation, as well as maintaining accuracy, the bending angle is best taken at an angle of 45 degrees;
  • if there is a need to build a template that will have a denser spiral, then the 8th part (s) of a unit distance from the spiral should be added to the radius value;
  • as for r0, it must be equal in size to the size of the cross section of the diameter that the workpiece for the spiral has.

Important: r0 can take any value, it all depends on what characteristics the metal is used for the workpiece, namely, on its density.

Considering all the nuances, you can start making a “snail” template, for this it is best to be able to solve equations that have a cubic degree and higher. There is no exact formula for calculating such a device, but there is one that allows you to achieve the best result. The sequence when building a spiral pattern can be as follows:

  • the initial point r0 is determined first;
  • the turns that the template will have are taken arbitrarily, their number can be any;
  • using tabular data, you should calculate the diameter (b), while making sure that it is smaller in width in the opening for the template;
  • using the formula, the radius R is calculated;
  • the last step is to transfer all the obtained points in accordance with the scale, after which you can proceed directly to the construction. In the process, let's adjust using a similar formula to the radius R in the final version.

Reference: if it becomes necessary to calculate intermediate values, then this is done in accordance with the geometric proportion.

Construction of a cold forging machine

When drawing up a drawing for further creating a template for the machine, it is best to make sure that it has the maximum number of different variations regarding bends and waves. Having such blanks, it is possible to create a cold forging machine with a variety of interchangeable nozzles, which will make it possible to produce various patterns and monograms.

The sequence of actions when creating a device:

  • Initially, you need a metal sheet, the size of which will depend on the number of patterns placed on it. The templates themselves should be placed in such a way that there is room for the manufacture of products, because during the process the material from the nozzles may move due to lack of space. Also, if the templates are not sufficiently removed from each other, complications may arise in the work.
  • As for the variations of the templates themselves, they can be either simple or contain more than one turn of the monogram. You can make a similar snail of the share type and think over the design of the bends in the disassembled and assembled state. At the same time, you should be careful when choosing the material for fixing the sliding parts - it should be as strong as possible.
  • The change of nozzles can be ensured by making a rectangular slot, it will be possible to insert interchangeable forging templates into it. They should all be attached to metal plates having the shape of a rectangle. The fastening of such nozzles will be provided with the help of bolts.

Video instruction

Device Assembly

This version of the machine is used as an example because of its simplicity. Knowing the basic principles and sequence of equipment design, it can be upgraded as desired. To assemble all parts of the equipment into a single whole, you will need to use:

  • drill with carbide type drills;
  • apparatus for welding;
  • a saw that cuts metal, or a hacksaw;
  • metal sheet of the selected size;
  • round metal pipe;
  • metal rod;
  • bearings of different sizes;
  • M8 bolts.

To assemble a cold forging machine with your own hands, you need to use a proven sequence of actions:

  1. Initially, you need to assemble a rack that will serve as a support. To do this, all its components (pipe cuts of the same size and joints between them from the upper and lower edges) must be connected into a single whole. The design in appearance may resemble a stool. The connection is carried out using a welding machine, and segments are cut with a saw.
  2. The next step is cutting sheets of metal. You should get circles of equal diameters and four triangles with equal sides. Triangular-shaped elements must be welded to the bottom of the connected pipe structure in such a way that something similar to a pyramid is learned. The base, which has a wider area, must be welded at the center point of the cut out circle.
  3. Four strips that are located horizontally must be attached to a circle with an element already welded. This should be done using bolts, for this you need a drill to make holes.
  4. The next step is the construction of the handle. To do this, you need to use two rods of different lengths. You can determine their size by correlating them with the diameter of the circle. One rod should be commensurate with the diameter, the other slightly exceed its size. When bending the first rod, an angle of 30 degrees should be observed at the same time. After that, both rods are welded to each other, after which another rod is welded into the lower part. There should also be a jumper between the first two segments, to which a lever is attached by welding, which must keep the direction towards the structure of the rods.

The bearing for the future variability of directions in the device must be attached to the end of the attached lever, as well as to the segment located at the bottom of the structure. The upper cut serves as a mount for a metal coil, which must be installed horizontally - it makes it possible to bend the metal. On the lower side of the segment, where there is a free end, a hole should be made equal in diameter to the size of the pipe section.

  • The last action in the algorithm of actions when building a do-it-yourself cold forging machine will be the connection of the designed handle with a part of the device similar to a "pyramid". The fixation of these elements after putting on the handle is carried out with a wide diameter nut, to which it is first necessary to weld a metal circle, which will allow the template itself to be attached to the machine. Further, the "snail"-template is joined by welding.
  • Those who decide to seriously engage in forging and make a cold forging machine with their own hands should be very scrupulous at the stage of creating drawings and calculations. Otherwise, the creation process is quite simple, and having understood the principle of equipment design, you can come up with various kinds of variations that will help improve products.

    One way to decorate areas is to use forged products. Fences, benches, gazebos, stair railings and other similar structures look very decorative. Moreover, in most cases, these products are not forging in its traditional sense. Most often this is done not in a forge and not with a hammer and anvil, but with the help of some devices that allow you to create a wide variety of patterns and products from metal strips and square bars. For the manufacture of such products, cold forging machines will be required. Some of them can be made with your own hands, others are easier to buy.

    What kind of devices are used

    Cold forging is characterized by various curls, bends, twisted rods, etc. Almost every type is made on a separate device - a specific machine. The drive they can be manual, or maybe electric. For small volumes “for themselves”, manual cold forging machines are used. Although they are not very productive, they are much easier to manufacture. If it is necessary to put production on stream, similar devices are made, but with electric motors. In this case, it is almost not necessary to work physically, but the complexity of manufacturing the device increases significantly. In our material we will talk about manual machines for cold forging.

    What devices are used:

      Torsion. With their help, tetrahedral bars or strips of metal are twisted in the longitudinal direction. It turns out twisted columns, which are also called torsion bars.

    It looks like a torsion bar and a machine of the same name

    This is how a flashlight is made

    Device for cold forging snail - for forming curls

    For bending anywhere and at any angle - bending machines (bending machines)

    Machine "Wave" - ​​for the formation of the appropriate relief

    Machines for finishing the ends of bars. In this case, goose foot

    For a novice craftsman, the most relevant cold forging machine is a snail. Only with its help you can make a lot of interesting things - from a fence and a gate to a bench and other similar products. In second place, according to the degree of need, is a torsion machine. It adds variety to the details. All the rest can be acquired or made as you improve and gain skill.

    Homemade "Snails"

    Basically, it's a modernized bending machine(pipe bender), but these improvements make it easy to make curls from fairly thick bars (section up to 10-12 mm) and repeat them with a high degree of accuracy.

    One of the homemade cold forging machines

    These cold forging machines have several designs, but the easiest option to implement is a round table with a central leg. A lever with rollers on bearings at the end is movably fixed to the leg. They make the bending process easier.

    The surface of the table can be made of steel sheet with a thickness of 10 mm or more. For the leg, you can use any thick-walled round pipe. It is important to make the structure stable, as lateral forces will be applied, therefore side racks, struts, as well as a stable base are needed.

    Drawing machine for cold forging "Snail"

    The lever is easier to make from a square pipe with a thick wall - at least 2-3 mm. Pipe section 25*40mm or so. The lever can be attached to the leg on a bearing, or you can simply take a small piece of a thick-walled pipe of a larger diameter, put it on the leg, and weld a stop strip from below so that the lever does not fall down. The bearing option gives easier movement, but with lubrication, the second option is also working.

    Lever mounting option

    The shape of the lever is also important. The lever is double, the upper part is working, the lower one is supporting. Wherever there are connections, it is desirable to add reinforcement, since the efforts are significant.

    The lever must be reliable, with reinforcement

    A mandrel or jig is fixed on the table - a form along which the curls are bent. They are made in different diameters - so that you can make curls of different diameters. Such mandrels can be prefabricated - to form more bends. Each such sample must have rods that are installed in holes in the table. So this template is fixed. Also, its shape must be designed in such a way that the end of the bar is well fixed in it.

    Variant of conductors for the snail

    Often, mandrels are machined from a metal circle of a suitable diameter using a grinder, but there are metal options with steel plates welded onto it, curved accordingly.

    How to make a similar machine for cold forging - in the next video. There is also a good description of how to bring the ends of the workpiece to a decent state - the usual raw edges look very rough. There is special equipment for processing them, but, as it turned out, you can cope without it.

    Torsion machine

    As already mentioned, these cold forging machines allow you to make longitudinal bends on the bar. This is a relatively simple design. The main task is to fix one end of the bar motionless, to attach a lever to the second, with which it will be possible to twist the workpiece.

    As a basis, a cut of a profiled pipe with a thick wall (at least 3 mm) is suitable. The latch can be welded from the same rods, leaving a square gap of the desired diameter. You can use a cable clamp of a suitable size (can be found at a rigging store). Any of these stops is welded to the base.

    Wire rope holder - great rod holder

    Next, you need to somehow ensure the capture and torsion of the second part of the workpiece. This can be done using two bearing assemblies. A pipe of a suitable diameter is inserted inside, on one side a handle is welded to it - the design resembles the letter "T". On the other hand, a retainer is made in the pipe: four holes are drilled, nuts are welded into them for 12 or 14 bolts. The result is a good latch - the bolts are tightened after the bar has been inserted.

    An even simpler machine for making torsion bars by cold forging is in the next video.

    Video about homemade fixtures and cold forging machines