Procuring 6061 aluminum rings, hollows and blocks exceeding 25 pounds necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the material's specifications, the industries that utilize these components and effective collaboration with vendors to meet stringent requirements and lead times. Industries Utilizing 6061 Aluminum Components 6061 aluminum is renowned for its versatility, combining strength, corrosion resistance, weldability and excellent machinability. These properties make it a preferred choice across various industries: Aerospace : Utilized in structural components due to its high strength-to-weight ratio. Missiles and Defense : Employed in manufacturing military vehicles, armor and weaponry. Semiconductor Manufacturing : Used in equipment components where precision and material integrity are crucial. Construction : Applied in structural applications requiring corrosion-resistant materials. Specifications of 6061 Aluminum Understanding the specifications of 6061 aluminum is essential for guaranteeing it meets the demands of your application. Key specifications include: Chemical Composition : Primarily composed of aluminum, magnesium (0.8–1.2%) and silicon (0.4–0.8%), with trace amounts of iron, copper, chromium, zinc and titanium. Mechanical Properties : Tensile Strength : Varies with temper; for T6 temper, ultimate tensile strength is at least 35,000 p si,  and 32,000 psi minimum yield. Elongation : In T6 tempe r, sizes up to 4” can surpass 10% elongation in the axial direction and surpass 8% elongation from 4-8”. Common Specifications : 6061 aluminum rings and hollows are often manufactured to meet standards such as AMS 4312, ASTM B247 and AMS 4127. Heat Treatment Considerations : The effectiveness of heat treatment processes for 6061 aluminum can be influenced by the cross-sectional thickness of the material. For instance, certain specifications allow for a 6”-8.5” maximum cross-sectional thickness during heat treatment to achieve mechanical property enhancements, imposed by specification requirements. Collaborating with Vendors to Meet Lead Times and Specifications Ensuring that your vendor can meet both lead time requirements and strict specifications is crucial. Consider the following steps: Material Availability : Partner with suppliers like Scot Forge, which maintains an extensive inventory of raw materials, allowing for shorter lead times and quick reactions to market changes. Quality Assurance : Work with vendors that are ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D certified, ensuring adherence to stringent quality standards. Customized Solutions : Engage with suppliers that offer near-net shaped forgings, providing shaped parts that reduce machining time and material costs. Heat Treatment and Testing Post-Machining Heat treatment is a critical process that enhances the mechanical properties of 6061 aluminum. For instance, T6 temper involves solution heat treatment and artificial aging to achieve maximum precipitation hardening. Post-machining heat treatment may be necessary to relieve stresses introduced during machining and to achieve desired mechanical properties to meet spec requirements. Subsequent testing, such as non-destructive testing (NDT), may also be required to confirm the integrity and performance of the final component. To meet your lead time and specification needs, you may need to procure your part in an as-forged state and rely on your machine shop to help facilitate the finished machining, heat treatment and testing processes. Working with a partner who can provide the forgings that will make it through these processes without deviation or failure is critical. This is why most machine shops prefer working with Scot Forge, as we can help ensure minimal part stress to support optimal machining. Scot Forge's Capabilities Scot Forge possesses the material and expertise to produce 6061 aluminum rings, hollows and blocks efficiently. With an extensive inventory and advanced forging capabilities, we can deliver parts in as little as eight weeks, depending on dimensions and requirements. Our commitment to quality is demonstrated through certifications like ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D as well as NADCAP accreditation in heat treatment and non-destructive testing. Conclusion Procuring 6061 aluminum rings, hollows and blocks over 25 pounds necessitates a thorough understanding of the material's specifications, the industries it serves and the importance of collaboration with experienced vendors. By partnering with suppliers like Scot Forge, you can ensure that your components meet stringent specifications and are delivered within your required lead times while maintaining the highest quality standards.

When it comes to forging excellence, Scot Forge is a name that stands out in the industry. Established in 1893, Scot Forge has grown into a leading provider of open-die, semi-closed-die, and rolled-ring forgings, serving industries such as small machine shops, aerospace, energy, mining, and defense. Headquartered in Spring Grove, Illinois, our company is renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation and customer satisfaction. Stronger together A Legacy of Expertise With more than a century of experience, we have honed our craft to perfection. Our company specializes in creating custom forgings ranging from a few pounds to over 400,000 pounds, tailored to meet the most stringent specifications. Our ability to work with diverse materials—from carbon and alloy steels to aluminum and nickel-based superalloys—ensures we can meet the needs of any project, no matter how complex. At Scot Forge, we strive to solidify our reputation as a reliable partner for demanding industries by focusing on precise engineering and stringent quality control. Industries Served Scot Forge plays a pivotal role in critical industries. Our forgings are used in applications such as wind turbine shafts for renewable energy, engine liners for aerospace and reactor components for nuclear power plants. The company also supports the oil and gas sector, heavy construction and marine industries, demonstrating our ability to adapt and innovate in response to the evolving demands of the market. This versatility highlights Scot Forge’s commitment to delivering tailored solutions for each unique application. Commitment to Quality At Scot Forge, quality is more than a priority; it’s a core value. The company is ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100-certified, ensuring our processes meet rigorous standards. Our quality commitment even allows us to handle Supplier Delegated Inspections. Our in-house metallurgical expertise and advanced testing capabilities guarantee that every product meets or exceeds customer expectations. In addition, our emphasis on continuous improvement ensures that our operations remain efficient, sustainable and aligned with industry advancements. Innovation and Technology Scot Forge leverages cutting-edge technology to stay ahead of the curve. Our state-of-the-art facilities include open-die presses, rolling mills, thousands of loose tools to achieve near-net shapes and advanced heat-treating capabilities. By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation, we consistently deliver high-performance solutions. Our investment in research and development enables us to explore new materials and manufacturing techniques, ensuring we remain at the forefront of the forging industry. A Partner You Can Trust Beyond our technical capabilities, Scot Forge is committed to building lasting relationships with our customers. Our team of knowledgeable professionals collaborates closely with clients to ensure every project’s success. By offering unparalleled customer service, transparent communication and reliable delivery, Scot Forge has earned a reputation as a trusted partner in the forging industry. For companies seeking high-quality forgings and exceptional service, Scot Forge stands as the leader in the field.

The question, “Open Die Forging or Closed Die Forging: Which is better?” can be answered simply. It depends; both processes have their advantages and disadvantages. The question, “Open Die Forging or Closed Die Forging: Which is better?” can be answered simply. It depends; both processes have their advantages and disadvantages. Closed-Die Forging Closed die forgings, also known as impression-die forgings, are considered suitable for complex parts because they force metal into a predetermined shape, which can be something with intricate curves or multiple surface heights. Additionally, closed-die forgings are advantageous for parts that must be mass-produced. The closed-die forging process starts with heating metal to a malleable state, without liquefying it. The metal is then placed between two preformed dies, which resemble a mold. These dies are either pressed or hammered towards each other to guide the metal, making it flow to fill the desired shape. This process will result in a buildup of excess metal along the outer edge of the forging; this is known as flash, which must be cut away.  The actual process of closed-die forging is where you can find the disadvantages of this type of forging. Because closed-die forging forces metal into shape, there is a possibility that the metal won’t fill all of the crevasses, creating an incomplete part wasting time and resources. To anticipate the likelihood of this happening, Forging Engineers use software to predict the outcomes of the closed-die process. But, even then, because you cannot see the part being forged, there is a possibility that the forging won’t meet specifications. Next, once the forge engineers have designed dies for the part, the dies need to be created, which can a holdup the process because it takes time and money to create them. Finally, when forging with a closed-die, there is the problem of the workpiece cooling at different rates. For example, the flashing cools much faster than the inside of the part, which affects the toughness and strength of the metal, possibly compromising the integrity of the part. Open-Die Forging Open-die forgings, or hammer forgings, are advantageous for shapes like discs, hubs, blocks, shafts (including step shafts or with flanges), sleeves, cylinders, flats, hexes, rounds, plate and some custom shapes, which require artistic finesse or custom work. Open-die forging begins with an ingot, a piece of cast metal, which is put into a furnace until it is ductile. Once in this state, the ingot is moved to the anvil, or the press depending on the size of the operation, where the blacksmith hammers the pliable ingot into shape. Since open-die forging doesn’t require custom-created dies, it can be a faster, more cost-effective technique. To get the desired shape with open-die forging, the blacksmith moves and orients the workpiece between hammer drops to force the metal to flow a certain way. Generally, the hammer has flat dies, but on occasion, a simple-shaped die is used for specialized pieces. The disadvantage to the process of open-die forging is that, because this process is not as precise, the forgings tend to need machining after the piece is forged. But, the disadvantages of open-die forging tend to be mitigated when using a tenured company that can specialize in near-net shaped forgings. Advanced forge shops now offer shapes that were never before thought capable of being produced by the open-die forging process. In conclusion, every project is different from the turnaround time to requirements; and knowing what process is best suited for your project may depend on the capabilities of the forging partner you are working with. Not all forging companies are equal, so the key to getting a successful forging is finding a company who is a true partner that will work to save you time and money with capabilities that are time tested. Scot Forge has more than 126 years of experience in making custom forgings. If you think you need a forging, let our forging experts take a look and help you find a solution that is right for you, contact us today.

A popular thought is that the mining and drilling industries are to blame for the state of the world; however, there are benefits to mining that cannot be overlooked. As people focus on preserving the planet's natural resources and are leaning more heavily on renewable energies, the popular thought is that the mining and drilling industries are to blame for the negative state of the world. However, while we do need to be aware of our carbon footprint, there are benefits to mining that cannot be overlooked.  (Discover the full infographic at https://mineralsmakelife.org/resources/our-energy-future-depends-on-mining/ ) The mining industry supports our everyday life. The mining industry not only provides the elements for the innovations of tomorrow, but the U.S. minerals industry also supports more than 1.1 million jobs. In addition, estimations indicate that another 3.5 additional jobs are created elsewhere in the economy for every metal mining job compared to every non-metal mining job producing around 2.6 other jobs. With mineral mining directly employing more than 400,000 Americans today, and more than 700,000 indirectly employed, the mining industry is a significant driving force in our economy.  Aside from supporting thousands of jobs, the mining industry provides raw materials, minerals and metals critical to our economy. They provide the foundations for modern living, innovation and engineering achievements. Take platinum, for example; it is used in more than 20 percent of all manufactured goods. Platinum is essential to creating everything from personal computers, flat-screen TVs and hybrid cars to life-saving medical devices. Today, the National Mining Association (NMA) reports that U.S. manufacturers rely on 29 of the 35 "critical" minerals, as the Department of Interior designated, essential to a strong U.S. economy.   Mining to Protect Health, Save Lives Life-saving medical devices would not exist without many of the metals and minerals that are mined. There are even medicines that doctors and patients rely on every day that would not be available. For example, minerals are crucial materials to operate CAT scan devices. Copper, silver and gold are mined here in the United States to support these machines. Lithium is found in pacemakers, defibrillator machines and other portable electronic equipment, while titanium is used in surgical pins, bone plates, wires, rods, stent-electrodes and screws. These are a few ways Americans and the world rely on metal and minerals for their health. Mining for Advanced Energy Technologies Renewable energy technologies rely on minerals. Copper is just one of these minerals. It is used in the wiring of solar panels and plays a significant role in components for wind turbines. Not only is this mineral a key player in energy production, but it also is critical to renewable energy storage as copper is used in lithium-ion batteries. On the topic of energy storage, another mineral frequently used is manganese. It is an additive in steel alloys and is found in electric vehicles and wind-and-solar power-storing batteries, along with lithium. Only procured through mining, these metals and minerals are also in both off-shore and on-shore wind power projects . Mining to Keep Americans Safe Metal and minerals are vital components of our national security; the United States Department of Defense utilizes more than 750,000 tons of metals and minerals annually, which have U.S. sourcing requirements. For example, armor plates are comprised of chromium, nickel and molybdenum combined in precise amounts and applied to purified scrap metal to protect people by withstanding explosions and gunshots. At the same time, airborne equipment employs beryllium to detect and destroy improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Mining , directly and indirectly, impacts all of us every day, from the phone that connects you to the world to the innovations in renewable energy that power homes and vehicles. Scot Forge helps support mining by developing and manufacturing forged components that are more sustainable as they require less material and are reliable, creating less scrapped parts and waste.

With the growing momentum behind offshore wind vessels, how can shipyards and machine shops ready themselves for the assumed influx of demand? Earlier this summer, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT’s) Maritime Administration (MARAD) announced the designation of offshore wind vessels as Vessels of National Interest. This designation is meant to spur more offshore wind construction and bring additional focus to project applications for review and funding through the Title XI Federal Ship Financing Program (Title XI). The Title XI program assists the domestic shipbuilding industry by providing financial support for U.S. shipyards to modernize facilities, build and retrofit vessels and help U.S. shipowners purchase new domestically-produced vessels. “We’re excited that some American shipyards have already secured contracts to build vessels to service offshore wind developments,” said Maritime Administrator Ann Phillips. “By growing [the shipbuilding industry], we further support essential offshore wind installations and continue to add jobs and strengthen our important domestic industrial base, including our shipyards and shipbuilding industry.” This assistance program and the Vessels of National Interest designation, recently made available for offshore wind vessels, are significant milestones to help the U.S. reach 30 gigawatts (G.W.) of offshore wind by 2030, the initiative set in motion by the President. Currently, more than 58 different types of vessels are needed to make offshore wind arrays possible. Dominion Energy, a major player in offshore wind, is the first to invest in a U.S.-flagged offshore Wind Tower Installation Vessel (WTIV) in Brownsville, Texas, that will be operational by late 2023. Not far behind are Orsted and Eversource, energy companies that have contracted with Edison Chouest in Louisiana to build the first U.S.-flagged Service Operations Vessel (SOV). In addition, Great Lakes Dredge & Dock is developing the first U.S.-flagged offshore wind Fallpipe Vessel for subsea rock installation as early as the first quarter of 2024. These three vessels are essential for the industry to meet current deployment goals, with additional vessels needed for different stages of offshore wind tower implementation. The vessels needed for the early stages of development help with surveying to place buoys, map the seabed, take seafloor samples, prep the seabed and ensure project safety. These include: Geotechnical Survey, Jack-Up Vessel Geophysical Survey Vessel Scout Vessels Dredge Vessels Next, for wind tower installation, the vessels needed to prep the foundation, transfer turbine components and personnel, lay cabling and provide noise mitigation are: Crew Transfer Vessels (CTV) Wind Tower Installation Vessels (WTIV) Service Operation Vessels (SOV) Jack-Up Barges/ Vessels U-Feeder Vessels/ Feeder Barges Noise Mitigation Vessels With all this growing momentum behind offshore wind vessels, how can shipyards and machine shops ready themselves for the assumed influx of demand? Most shipbuilders feel the biggest challenge in supplying vessels for offshore wind is not capacity but engineering and procurement. Design engineers often fail to provide a completed design upfront, augmenting ship design after, just before or during the building, drastically impacting delivery lead times. Furthermore, procurement of parts, especially now, as resources continue to be constrained due to overseas tensions, seems to pose a threat. This is why asking the right questions upfront and establishing strong U.S. manufacturing partnerships are critical. While Scot Forge can’t speak to the processes of design engineers, we can say we know the importance of a fully integrated American supply chain. From steel production, forging and ABS inspection to heat treatment, NDT and semi-machined parts ready for fabrication, we only use U.S.-sourced labor and material. That said, shipyards and shipbuilders often don’t specify a vendor for forgings or castings. They leave that selection to the machine shops they partner with to produce the ready-to-install component. So, whether you are a shipyard project manager or need to procure near-net-shaped metal parts, the U.S. has a supply chain ready to support your needs. Scot Forge has the experience, material and ABS relationships required to provide the parts that will set your vessels sailing. From a single ABS Grade 2 bar to pinions that support a jack-up rig, our owners have decades of experience delivering the quality required to build a vessel.

Learn more about ultra-clean metals produced through a process called Vacuum Arc Remelting and the benefits they bring to forged bar. Bar Forgings are used in many applications, from ship shafts to gears in machines we use daily; and bar forgings found in high-value applications, such as applications that undergo extreme conditions, need metal grades of the highest quality. To reach these qualities, engineers can choose “exotic” metals, which inherently hold choice qualities. But, with these high-end materials come high-end prices. Another, more cost-effective, way to reach high-quality material properties is through remelting processes like Vacuum Arc Remelting or Electro-Slag Remelting. Both VAR and ESR help to produce clean material , reducing segregation and inclusions in steel or other alloys, refining them and improving grade properties – VAR is prevalent in the United States and ESR is more commonly seen in Europe, although U.S. ESR furnace capacity has been increasing over the past few years. The benefit of Vacuum Arc Remelting is cleaner materials with: reduced gas and oxide contents, improved homogeneity of the ingots obtained; improved ductility; greater uniformity of properties in the transverse, and longitudinal directions; improved fatigue properties; and uniformity of chemical composition. To produce these ultra-clean metals, VAR materials go through a secondary melting process conducted in a vacuum-sealed, highly controlled environment. The steels and alloys gain tight chemical tolerances through the removal of dissolved gases, such as hydrogen and nitrogen (if desired); the reduction of undesired trace elements; directional solidification of the ingot from bottom to top, which alleviates macro-segregation and reduces micro-segregation.  As mentioned above, VAR also provides oxide removal that is achieved through chemical and physical processes. The chemical process happens because less stable oxides or nitrides are thermally reduced by the carbon present in the alloy, allowing them to then be removed through the vacuum of the VAR process. However, in special alloys and high-alloyed steels, the non-metallic inclusions (e.g. alumina) are very stable, so they remain in the chemical makeup of the material. Other inclusions in the ingot will be removed physically by flotation that takes place during remelting (impurities float to the top where they get cut off). Any remaining inclusions are broken up and evenly distributed in the cross-section of the solidified ingot. VAR grade materials are found in aerospace applications, including the “superalloys” needed for extreme applications of temperature and pressure. VAR steels are used in rocket-booster rings, landing gear and high-pressure tubes. Oil and gas , as well as the nuclear industry , are utilizing the remelt of reactive metals and their alloys. Typical VAR grades: 4340 VAR9310 VARPH Stainless300M3NiCrMoV300 & 400 Series Stainless To learn more about VAR grade properties and availability, contact a member of the Scot Forge bar team today!

The robust and evolving nature of the forging industry in the United States and the nation's ability to meet the growing demand for forgings in various sectors, including defense, energy and aerospace. In recent years, there has been a prevalent misconception regarding the limited forging capacity in the United States. Due to perceived limitations in forging capabilities, some have expressed concerns about the nation's ability to meet the growing demands of various industries, including defense, energy and aerospace. However, it's crucial to address and dispel these misconceptions to showcase the robust and evolving nature of the forging industry in the United States. U.S. Forge Capacity: Unraveling the Misconception Growing Industry Presence: Contrary to the belief of limited forging capacity, the United States boasts a significant and growing presence in the forging industry. Forging facilities, like Scot Forge, have invested in state-of-the-art technology and advanced manufacturing processes to enhance their production capabilities. These facilities play a pivotal role in meeting the diverse needs of industries ranging from automotive and defense to infrastructure and clean energy. Advanced Technologies and Innovation: There is a false impression that often arises from a lack of awareness about the advancements in forging technologies. Modern forging facilities in the U.S. employ advanced techniques such as precision forging, closed-die and semi-closed-die forging and additive manufacturing. These innovations increase the overall capacity and allow for the production of complex and near-net-shaped components, debunking the notion of limited capabilities. Strategic Partnerships: The forging industry in the U.S. has forged strategic partnerships with research institutions and government agencies to foster innovation and address potential downstream capacity constraints. Collaborative efforts between industry players and academia have led to the development of cutting-edge processes, materials and quality control measures, ensuring a robust and competitive forging sector. Diverse Applications: While defense and aerospace are key consumers of forged components, the industry serves a myriad of sectors, including mining, semiconductor manufacturing and construction. This diversity in applications showcases the adaptability and versatility of U.S. forging facilities, proving that capacity is not limited but rather multifaceted. Forge Capacity: Addressing Industry Challenges Workforce Development: We actively participate in workforce development and apprenticeship programs to strengthen the forging industry further. By reaching out to educate young people on their options for career paths, we have established a thriving pipeline of new talent. Furthermore, by offering training programs and initiatives that attract skilled professionals to the field we contribute to sustaining and enhancing forging capacity in the U.S. Infrastructure Investment: Upgrading and expanding infrastructure within forging facilities will be crucial for meeting the evolving demands of various industries. We reinvest our own money, to the tune of $500 million over the last 15 years, in facilities and assets that will continue to support the needs of the nation for years to come. Our continued investment in cutting-edge equipment and technology will ensure that the forging sector remains at the forefront of manufacturing capabilities. In conclusion, the misconception of limited forging capacity in the United States is far from the truth. The forging industry in the U.S. is robust, technologically advanced and continuously evolving to meet the diverse and growing needs of various sectors. By dispelling these misconceptions, we can appreciate the strength and adaptability of the forging sector, positioning it as a key player in the nation's industrial landscape. As the industry continues to innovate, forge ahead and debunk myths, the future of forging in the U.S. remains promising and dynamic.

Scot Forge reviews the numerous applications in forgings and the different methods for testing. Forging is one of the oldest skills known to man and it’s tough to envision manufacturing and even life without the parts created by forging. Some of the applications for forgings can be straightforward, such as rings for gears and flanges or bars for ship shafts. In contrast, others are very complex, such as hollows for oil country tubular goods (OCTG) and pressure tubing for power boilers or domes for nuclear waste storage. There are numerous applications for forgings. As a result, there are many manufacturing and testing standards that forgings must meet. Forgings are commonly created to the standards of the following organizations: •  AISI - American Iron and Steel Institute • ANSI - American National Standards Institute • AMS - Aerospace Material Standards • API - American Petroleum Institute • ASTM - American Society for Testing and Materials • ASME - American Society of Mechanical Engineers • NAVSEA - Naval Sea Systems Command • DIN EN - European National Standards And, just like the applications of the forgings, the methods for testing can be varied. For instance, testing from a ring to a tube for a critical, high-pressure use is not as simple as it first appears. Numerous standards could apply; it depends on the application. ASTM A668, for example, references six different standards. A275/A275M Practice for Magnetic Particle Examination of Steel Forgings A370 Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products A388/A388M Practice for Ultrasonic Examination of Steel Forgings A788/A788M Specification for Steel Forgings, General Requirements E290 Test Methods for Bend Testing of Material for Ductility E340 Practice for Macroetching Metals and Alloys Each standard specifies procedures for measurements or test methods. As far as material standards, the mill typically calls out the capabilities of material based on sound forging practices. There are many tests available to meet criteria standards and ensure part quality that helps find indications, or imperfections, in the material – magnetic particle test (MT), dye penetrant test (PT) and ultrasonic inspection (UT). MT and PT discover surface flaws; they are relatively easy and inexpensive. MT uses a magnetic field with a solution containing iron filing particles that highlight an indication in the forging as the iron particles collect at the magnetic flux that leaks from a crack or void. PT can be more time consuming as it requires applying a liquid penetrant to the forging and then removing it; a developer must then sit on the piece to draw out remaining penetrant from any cracks or crevices. UT is a volumetric test and uses sound waves to find gaps in the forging; when the sound wave hits a void, it ends back a spike in the ultrasonic display, which is called an indication. All these methods require a finished surface to allow for accurate readings. Performing a test is one process, but evaluating a forging to determine if it is acceptable is a different process altogether. For instance, it’s not uncommon to require a UT inspection by requesting “UT per ASTM A388.” The problem, spelled out in this document, is that “this practice is intended for application to forgings, with a wide variety of sizes, shapes, compositions, melting processes, and applications. It is, therefore, impracticable to specify an ultrasonic quality level which would be universally applicable to such a diversity of products.” The standard does not list exact acceptance requirements other than indications that cannot exceed an acceptable size. Since metal transitions from a liquid to a solid, there are always some particles that get trapped, much like air bubbles or dirt would in ice. While most particles get eliminated during the forging process, some could remain at an acceptable level. So, this is why it is essential to discuss acceptance criteria, list the voids or flaws that might be found as well as the limits or extent that they are permitted. A good example is specifying the amount of non-metallic inclusions that may be permitted. The specification would include the sizes and spacing between non-metallic inclusions that must be measured and evaluated, which helps set expectations for both the customer and the manufacturer. It is important to note that there are ways to reduce the risk of indications in a forging, such as using refined material like Vacuum Arc Remelt (VAR), but increased purity results in increased cost.  Finding the balance between acceptable quality and cost-effectiveness is often tricky. Not to mention how the acceptance criteria vary by each forged product. So, it is essential to carefully review documents that support the requirements of the end-use application. From the simple to the complex, a partner like the Scot Forge employee-owners can help guide you through this process.

Join Scot Forge and show your support of manufacturing by participating in the Traveling Highlander Contest and win $500 for your local Career in Technical Education program! Our future together depends on the ability to strengthen manufacturing. Win $500 to sponsor skilled future employees! Manufacturing Day is Friday, October 2nd, 2015 Manufacturing is woven into the fabric of our economy, but experts forecast a bleak future if U.S. manufacturers can’t find talented, well-educated people—the kind who take initiative and spark innovation. Millions of manufacturing jobs sit empty worldwide because there aren’t enough people with the right qualifications for the positions. Unfortunately, the need for highly skilled manufacturing workers hasn’t shielded the school programs that produce them from budget cuts. Now, more than ever, manufacturers need to band together to make sure schools are teaching the skills their workers need. Scot Forge is running an amazing contest where you can win a $500 donation for your local CTE program! Throughout the year, local manufacturer Scot Forge works closely with high schools and Career in Technical Education (CTE) programs to support and educate the next generation about the opportunities a career in manufacturing can provide. CTE programs offer students the technical knowledge, academic foundation and real-world experience they need to prepare for high-skill, high-demand, high-wage careers. Manufacturing Day is a celebration of modern manufacturing meant to inspire the next generation of manufacturers. Please show your support in developing future generations by participating in the Traveling Highlander contest! Our future together depends on our ability to strengthen manufacturing. Contest Rules To enter for a chance at the prize, all you have to do is post a picture of the Traveling Highlander to your Facebook page with a few key bits of information. How To Enter Take a photo with the Traveling Highlander that you feel best represents the innovation of manufacturing Post it to Facebook with @Scot Forge and #mfgday in the caption Entry period ends on 10/9/2015 – the most inspirational photo will win the $500! CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE TRAVELING HIGHLANDER To schedule a tour of Scot Forge, please call Lindsey Canalle in Human Resources at 800.435.6621.Visit www.scotforge.com/career s to learn more.

Take a peek into what makes Scot Forge different, how we forge our future by succeeding or failing as a team and the tradition of the SPIKE Award. Tradition. Loyalty. Pride. When you have a company with more than 125 years of history, tradition, loyalty and pride become infused in not only the culture, but the employees themselves. At Scot Forge, you can sense the essence of tradition, the vigor of loyalty and the notion of pride the moment you arrive at any of our three facilities. This has much to do with the fact that we are an employee-owned (ESOP) company and have been for more than 40 years.    Employee-ownership means that we forge our future by succeeding or failing as a team, which is significantly impacted by the principles above. We must take pride every day in what we do and how we do it to succeed in creating the best possible outcomes for our customers that extend beyond simply forgings. After all, what we develop impacts lives through strengthening infrastructure , improving aerospace designs, powering the world through mined commodities and bolstering our national defense .   Furthermore, for success, we must have loyalty internally to hold ourselves and each other to high standards. To achieve these standards, we leverage each other’s strengths, exhibit servant leadership in all that we do and attack the problem, not the person, which would not be possible without trust. Our loyalty to our customers is another facet of success. What we do would not be possible if we weren’t devoted to delivering high-quality, essential forged solutions on time, as promised.   Finally, establishing pride and developing loyalty couldn’t take place without tradition. At Scot Forge, “plaid is pride” it is our tradition to wear plaid to honor the Scottish roots of Pete “Spike” Georgeson, our ESOP founder.  Plaid also represents the way we rely on each other through success and failure, and the way that we unite with our customers. Another tradition is the recognition and reward of employee-owners who demonstrate the values of commitment and contribution with the SPIKE Award.   The SPIKE Award was founded in 1987 and named in honor of Pete. It celebrates employee-owners who have gone above and beyond the call of duty for the past year. Once a year, around August, employee-owners vote for fellow employee-owners who make an impact daily and truly embody the Scot Forge values of safety, personal accountability, integrity, continuous improvement, learning and collaboration.   By living these values daily, our employee-owners have created an environment that has surpassed just a job or a place to work and formed a family. Some employee-owners have been with Scot Forge right out of high school and are retiring after a 25-year career. While others have worked in different industries who now call Scot Forge home.  But, we all work toward one common goal, to leave our company better than we found it. Congratulations and thank you to this year’s SPIKE Award winners!   To learn more about Scot Forge and the opportunities we have in machining, forge, heat treat, operations, engineering or office positions call us or take a look at our careers page.

In July, Scot Forge made a big announcement...Ron Hahn has taken over the role of President and COO. In July, it was announced to the employee-owners of Scot Forge that Ron Hahn was promoted to President of the company but would continue to maintain his role of Chief Operating Officer. This is a natural progression for Scot Forge; Ron has a long history with the company and has been sharing many of the President’s responsibilities with CEO and Chairman of the Board, John Cain, since becoming COO in 2011. Ron joined the company in 1990 as an intern in Maintenance and Engineering performing all sorts of hands-on tasks with the equipment care and maintenance. That year, he was the recipient of the Peter I. Georgeson Scholarship from the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE). His potential was quickly realized and in 1991 he was hired on full-time. He continued to work in Engineering and in 2001 was promoted to the Engineering Manager. In 2006, Ron earned the opportunity to serve as the Project Crew supervisor. By 2008, Ron was promoted to Director of Manufacturing which was followed by the promotion Vice President and COO in 2011. Ron has contributed to the success of Scot Forge in many ways over the course of his career, but his favorite project has been the design and engineering of the 5,500 Ton press in Spring Grove. Ron was responsible for putting the business case together for the asset but recalled with pride how it took the dedication of the entire Engineering and Maintenance teams to get the press up and running within a strict deadline of a year to meet some critical customer needs. He stated about the project, “The fun part was seeing the team come together. There was a mission and the team came together to make that happen.” When asked about his newest promotion, Ron stated that he’s most looking forward to building on the relationships that make us all stronger…with employee-owners, customers, partners, suppliers and competitors. Since he has worked on both the operations and commercial sides of the business, he understands the advantages of these long-term partnerships and how they translate to benefits for all parties involved. Since the transition of President from John to Ron happened during healthy economic times, Ron can focus on his strategy to continue to build on the strengths of our culture, order fulfillment and on-going customer learning. “I’ve been here 27 and a half years,” he stated, “and the culture is what differentiates us. We’ll continue to grow and invest where our customers need us. [Regarding] our business development ... we're not stopping that either. Diversification in our markets is an important part of our strategy, especially with our employee-ownership culture. Our strategy will always be looking to grow where our customers need us.” Ron describes his priorities as faith, family and work family. He has two children who both attend UW-Madison. He loves to spend his free time golfing with his kids and his wife, Cami. John Cain will continue to serve in his role as the CEO and Chairman of the Board at Scot Forge. Read John’s full letter to the Scot Forge employee-owners about this long-term transition. Read the Full Letter

Joining the ranks of other prominent companies such as Honeywell International, Caterpillar Inc., Lockheed Martin, ExxonMobile and Alcoa, Scot Forge becomes the first ever forging company in the United States to receive this honor. EHS Today names Scot Forge as one of America’s Safest Companies in 2014 Since 2002, EHS Today ( Environment, Health, & Safety Today ) has recognized America’s Safest Companies, honoring those whose focus is on developing and maintaining world-class safety cultures. Each year, companies from all types of industries submit applications for review and EHS selects 10-15 standouts to receive this prestigious award. This year, we are proud to announce that Scot Forge Company has claimed one of the 2014 spots. Joining the ranks of other prominent companies such as Honeywell International, Caterpillar Inc., Lockheed Martin, ExxonMobile and Alcoa... Scot Forge becomes the first ever forging company in the United States to receive this honor.   To be considered for the title of America's Safest Company, Scot Forge had to demonstrate “support from management and employee involvement, innovative solutions to safety challenges, injury and illness rates lower than the average for the manufacturing industry, comprehensive training programs, evidence that prevention of incidents is the cornerstone of the safety process, good communication about the value of safety, and a way to substantiate the benefits of the safety process”. (America’s Safest Companies, EHS Today) While this award means a lot to the company, it’s just the beginning. Even though Scot Forge is doing very well by external measures, internally the employee-owners know they can do significantly better. The company’s culture of continuous improvement and commitment to safety means their ultimate goal is zero injuries… and they won’t be satisfied until that goal is sustained. At Scot Forge, everyone is working towards a common goal - to go home at the end of each day without accidents or injuries. By fostering a low-risk work environment, employees stay productive and can focus on other things, like producing quality, precision forged parts. And by taking care of themselves, the employee-owners know they can continue to take better care of their customers. Scot Forge… We’ve Got You Covered! Read the whole SafeStart Success story! Download Now