Definition

1. Noun:

   • A tool used in metalworking: A swage is a tool, typically made of hardened steel, used to shape, form, or finish metal by hammering or pressing. It is often used to thicken, spread, or create specific shapes on the end of a metal bar, rod, or rivet.

2. Verb:

   • To shape or form metal using a swage: The action of using a swage tool to mold, forge, or finish a piece of metal, often by placing the hot or cold metal into or against the swage and applying force.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The blacksmith selected a round-nose swage from his rack to shape the iron rod.
  • A swage is essential for creating the head on a hot rivet.

• Verb:

  • The artisan will swage the copper tubing to fit the connector perfectly.
  • This machine is designed to swage the ends of cables for attaching fittings.

Advanced Usage

• "To swage a fitting": In engineering or plumbing, this refers to the process of permanently attaching a metal sleeve or fitting to a wire or tube by deforming it, creating a strong, sealed connection.

  • The technician will swage the hydraulic hose fitting to prevent leaks.

• "Swage block": A heavy block of iron or steel with various holes and shapes cut into it, used as a support or forming tool in conjunction with swages and other tools.

  • The complex curve was formed over the corner of the swage block.

Variants and Related Words

• Swaging (n/gerund): The process or technique of using a swage.

  • Swaging is a common cold-working process in jewelry making.

• Swager (n): A person who operates a swage, or a machine designed for swaging.

  • The swager operated the press to form the metal brackets.

Synonyms

• Noun: die, forming tool, shaping tool, forge tool.
• Verb: shape, form, forge, press, mold, work.

Related Phrases

• Swage off: To cut or sever a piece (like a wire or cable) using a swaging tool that pinches and shears it.
  • After securing the fitting, you can swage off the excess wire.

Technical Notes

• Swage vs. Forge: While both involve shaping metal, often implies a more precise forming or finishing operation using a specific tool (the swage), whereas is a broader term for shaping metal through hammering or pressing.
• Cold Swaging: A process performed on metal at room temperature, which can increase its strength through work hardening.

Noun

1. a tool used to thicken or spread metal (the end of a bar or a rivet etc.) by forging or hammering or swaging

Verb

1. form metals with a swage