How Forgings compare to Reinforced Plastics/Composite (RP/C)
Forgings offer greater productivity. New advanced-composite part designs may often require long lead times and substantial development costs. The high production rates possible in forging cannot yet be achieved in reinforced plastics and composites.
Forgings have established documentation. RP/C physical property data are scarce and data from material suppliers lack consistency. Even advanced aerospace forgings are established products with well-documented physical, mechanical and performance data.
Forgings offer broader service temperature range. RP/C service temperatures are limited and effects of temperature are often complex. Forgings maintain performance over a wider temperature range.
Forgings offer more reliable service performance. Deterioration and unpredictable service performance can result from damage to continuous, reinforcing RP/C fibers. Forging materials out-perform composites in almost all physical and mechanical property areas, especially in impact resistance and compression strength.