Haynes International Inc., a nickel- and cobalt-based alloy producer based in Kokomo, Indiana and part of North American Stainless, a subsidiary of Acerinox Group, has commissioned SMS group to supply a fully integrated hydraulic radial forging line.
The project centers on the SMX 800 / 25 MN hydraulic radial forging machine, supported by reheating and annealing furnaces, quenching equipment, and automated loading, cutting, unloading, and bar-finishing systems. The line will provide an end-to-end automated solution for producing high-performance alloy billets and bars. The investment also includes a vacuum induction melting facility and forms part of Acerinox Group’s strategy to expand its global footprint in high-performance alloys.
Designed for demanding end markets such as aerospace and chemical processing in the US, the SMX 800 / 25 MN delivers 25 MN per forging cylinder, or 100 MN total pressing force, enabling direct conversion of ingots into billets and bars. Its compact hydraulic drive system reduces installed electrical power by around 50pct and peak power demand by about 60pct, while maintaining constant pressing force, precise speed control, and high core deformation for consistent microstructures.
SMS group’s furnaces will meet AMS 2750 temperature uniformity requirements and feature low-NOx burners and recuperative systems to improve efficiency and keep emissions below EPA limits. Integrated with SMS group’s MIDIS production control and Comforge software, the line will enable operator-free operation and optimized forging strategies. Project completion is scheduled for 2027.
