Abstract:

A new kind of stretch forming process, called multi-roll-pressing flexible stretch forming(MRPFSF) process, was studied. The MRPFSF process of spherical surface parts of aluminum alloy sheet was simulated in comparison with the conventional process by means of an explicit finite element software and the variations of stress, strain, and thickness of forming parts were analyzed comparatively for both forming modes. The results show that the stress and strain distributions in the forming part by MRPFSF are more uniform and the forming quality is better than those by the conventional process. The practical MRPFSF test was done on an experimental machine, proving the feasibility and practicability of the proposed MRPFSF process.

Key words: materials synthesis and processing technology, sheet metal forming, numerical simulation, stretch forming, aluminum alloy