How to Change Dies on a Horizontal Forging Machine? Step-by-Step Guide

Gaomi Hongfeng Machinery Co., Ltd., a professional manufacturer of horizontal parting die flat forging machines with over 20 years of experience, receives many inquiries from global forging factories about how to change dies efficiently and safely on horizontal forging machines.

Proper die changing is critical for minimizing downtime, ensuring forging quality, and extending die life. Below is a clear, practical step-by-step guide based on our SM11 Jaw Horizontal Parting Die Flat Forging Machines and HK Open Horizontal Parting Die Flat Forging Machines.

Why Quick Die Change Matters

In modern forging production, frequent die changes are common when switching between different part sizes or designs. Our horizontal forging machines are designed with user-friendly structures that allow die changes in a relatively short time (usually 30–90 minutes depending on machine tonnage and operator experience), significantly improving overall production efficiency.

Step-by-Step Die Changing Procedure

Preparation and Safety

Stop the machine completely and disconnect power or lock out/tag out (LOTO) for safety.

Ensure the machine is cooled down if it has been running. Clean the die area and remove any scale or residue.

Prepare necessary tools: crane or hoist (for heavy dies), wrenches, torque tools, die lifting fixtures, and protective equipment.

Release Clamping Force

Open the jaw clamping mechanism completely (in jaw-type machines like SM11 series).

Release the main clamping cylinders or toggle-lever system that holds the dies.

For open-type machines (HK series), loosen the side locking wedges or bolts.

Remove the Old Dies

Use the built-in die ejector or an external hoist to carefully lift the upper/lower or left/right dies.

In horizontal parting machines, the dies are typically split left-right or mounted on die holders. Slide or pull them out horizontally along the guide rails.

Pay attention to alignment pins and locating keys to avoid damage during removal.

Clean and Inspect

Thoroughly clean the die holders, guide rails, and clamping surfaces.

Check for wear, cracks, or deformation on the die holders. Replace any damaged parts if necessary.

Install New Dies

Lift the new dies (pre-heated if required for large forgings) and align them carefully with the locating pins or keys.

Slide the dies into position along the precision guide system.

Close the jaw clamping mechanism or tighten the locking wedges/bolts gradually and evenly.

Use a torque wrench to apply the manufacturer-recommended clamping force.

Adjustment and Testing

Adjust the clamping stroke and forging stroke according to the new die design.

Perform a dry run (no billet) to check alignment and smooth movement.

Start with a trial forging using a test billet and inspect the first few samples for flash, filling, and dimensional accuracy. Fine-tune if needed.

Final Check and Restart

Confirm all safety interlocks are functioning.

Record the die change details (time, operator, new die information) for maintenance tracking.

Tips for Faster and Safer Die Changes on Gaomi Hongfeng Machines

Our machines feature quick-change die holder systems and precision guide rails, which significantly reduce changeover time.

Pre-heating new dies and using dedicated die carts or cranes can shorten the process.

Regular lubrication of guide rails and clamping mechanisms helps maintain smooth operation.

For high-volume production, we recommend optional automatic or semi-automatic die change accessories.

Why Choose Gaomi Hongfeng Horizontal Forging Machines?

Our horizontal parting die flat forging machines (SM11 and HK series) are designed with strong rigidity, excellent clamping stability, and easy maintenance in mind. They are widely used for producing connecting rods, gears, wrenches, flanges, and other complex forgings with high material utilization and superior quality.

Hundreds of our machines are operating successfully in Europe, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and South America, earning consistent praise for reliability and after-sales support.

If you need a detailed die change video, operation manual, or technical support for your specific model, our engineering team is ready to assist.

Looking for high-efficiency horizontal forging machines or die change solutions?

Contact Gaomi Hongfeng Machinery today for catalogs, quotations, or customized forging line proposals.