Abstract
Hydroformed parts have higher dimensional accuracy, structural strength, and dimensional repeatability. Particularly in the automotive industry, manufacturing of parts with complex shapes from tubular materials sometimes requires one or more pre-forming operations such as bending before the hydroforming process. The pre-bending process is an important process for the successful hydroforming in the case where the perimeter of the blank is nearly the same as that of final product. The bendability of a tube depends on the parameters such as the bending radius, welding methods, mechanical properties and hardness. Through the stainless steel tubes bent by rotary draw bending machine, this study shows the following : (1) The influence on spring back ratio variation with stress level in the welded bent tube. (2) The Cross-section ovality variation with weld seam position and bending radius. (3) The relation between elongation and thickness reduction of tension zone with weld seam position and bending radius. (4) Workability evaluation of bent stainless steel tubes through the hardness of materials and hardness increment. The results of this study may help to understanding of characteristics on bendability of stainless steel tubes.
