Optimization of Microextrusion Preforming Using Taguchi Method

Abstract

Micropin head geometry significantly influences surface contact and electrical conductivity. In this paper, the preforming process of extrusion is investigated to establish it as a viable process for microforming. Here, the numerical simulations using DEFORM-3D software are used to examine the effect of preformance and pin shape on the extrusion of microbrass pins with a minimum diameter of 0.88 mm under several design parameters. These parameters are planned with the Taguchi method and help to discover better conditions for the minimum extrusion loads. For obtaining the required parameters to enable the finite element software, a compression test is first performed to determine the true stress and true strain curve of the materials. The result acquired from the experiment is compared with the simulation outcome and verified the accuracy. The consequences show that the optimal microextrusion forming conditions appear on stage rod length 0.015 mm, extruding angle 60°, upper front-end taper 60°, and bottom stage angle 60° to minimalize the forming load, and the dimensions of the deformed micropin reveal a good identification with the simulation. The study hence shows a potential tool for the combination of Taguchi method and finite element software to analyze the microforming process in the fastener industry.