Superplastic Forming Formula for Aluminum Channel Panels

Abstract

A parametric study was conducted to determine how the design features and forming parameters affect part thinning and forming time in the Superplastic Forming Process (SPF). Explicit formulas, describing the maximum percent thinning and the forming time for channel parts formed by the SPF process as a function of eight designs and forming parameters, were derived. The formulas are good approximations of those obtained by finite element simulation analyses and physical experiments. Thinning of the channels was influenced most by the component aspect ratio (height versus width) and entry radius at top of the channel forming tool. The forming time was most influenced by strain rate, aspect ratio and tool bottom radius. A design domain can be established to avoid excessive thinning. The Taguchi design-of-experiment method was applied to select parameter combinations, and the MARC finite element code was used to conduct sectional analysis for various combinations.