M. D. Hanna, GM Reserach and Development Center, Warren, MI; P. E. Krajewski, GM Research and Development Center, Warren, MI
Hot blow forming enables complex shapes to be formed which provide part consolidation and reduce the number of dies required to make a given component. The excessive thinning during forming often necessitates the use of reinforcements in service which are welded or bonded to the blow formed part. The present work investigates a number of methods for forming these reinforcements in-situ during forming of the main component. which can provide a perfectly matched reinforcement for the panel. A number of methods are discussed including bonding reinforcements prior to forming, locating the reinforcement in the die prior to introducing the large blank, or multiple sheet forming. Issues with implementing these approaches are discussed and opportunities for further developed are provided.
Summary: Hot blow forming enables complex shapes to be formed which provide part consolidation and reduce the number of dies required to make a given component. The excessive thinning during forming often necessitates the use of reinforcements in service which are welded or bonded to the blow formed part. The present work investigates a number of methods for forming these reinforcements in-situ during forming of the main component., which can provide a perfectly matched reinforcement for the panel. A number of methods are discussed including bonding reinforcements prior to forming, locating the reinforcement in the die prior to introducing the large blank, or multiple sheet forming. Issues with implementing these approaches are discussed and opportunities for further developed are provided.
