Which discontinuities might be found in a forging?

In the context of forging, laps refer to imperfections resulting from the folding over of the metal during the forging process. When the metal is deformed, especially at temperatures where it is more ductile, sections can overlap and create areas where material is not fully fused together. These laps can significantly weaken the structure of the forged product and are therefore considered a type of discontinuity.

Laps are often caused by improper die design, incorrect forging techniques, or insufficient material flow, which prevents thorough bonding between layers of metal. Understanding how laps form and how to recognize them is essential for ensuring the integrity of forged components. Other discontinuities such as cracks and overlapping can also arise in forging, but laps specifically point to an issue with the material bonding process.