The forging process is a metal-forming method that aims to improve material quality through microstructural changes. Wire ropes, which are generally made of carbon steel, can be used as alternative raw materials for knife manufacturing. This study aimed to analyze the effect of the forging process on the microstructure of knives made from wire ropes. The research method used was an experimental method, which began with the preparation of the wire rope material, heating to a temperature of 900 °C, and forging until the blade geometry was formed. The forged specimens were then subjected to metallographic testing to observe their microstructural characteristics. Specimen preparation included cutting, gradual sanding, polishing, and etching before observation using an optical microscope. The results showed that forging at 900 °C followed by cooling resulted in significant microstructural changes. The martensite structure was formed owing to rapid cooling after heating, whereas the pearlite and ferrite structures appeared in areas with a slower cooling rate. The combination of these microstructures led to the refinement of the grain size and a more homogeneous phase distribution compared to that of the starting material. These changes indicate a potential increase in the mechanical properties, particularly the hardness and wear resistance of the knife. Thus, the forging process affects the microstructure of the wire rope and can potentially improve the quality of the resulting knife.
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