DMM's hot forging process is a testament to their commitment to producing high-quality climbing equipment. Hot forging involves heating metal, in this case, aluminum alloys, to a temperature where it becomes pliable. This allows the metal to be pressed or hammered into complex shapes that would be impossible or impractical to achieve through cold working methods.
In hot forging, DMM uses precision dies to shape the heated metal into the desired form. This process not only allows for intricate designs and optimized strength-to-weight ratios but also aligns the metal's grain structure along the lines of stress, enhancing the final product's durability and performance. For climbing gear like carabiners and protection devices, this means achieving the best balance between lightweight and strength.
After forging, the products undergo heat treatment to attain the desired mechanical properties, such as toughness and resistance to fatigue. This is followed by meticulous inspection and testing to ensure they meet DMM's stringent safety standards. The hot forging process is central to DMM's ability to innovate and produce gear that climbers trust for its reliability and performance.
Watch the DMM history and hot forge process: Forging Ahead