US20120047979A1 - Hydroforming die assembly and method for deforming a tube - Google Patents
Hydroforming die assembly and method for deforming a tube Download PDFInfo
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- US20120047979A1 US20120047979A1 US13/010,314 US201113010314A US2012047979A1 US 20120047979 A1 US20120047979 A1 US 20120047979A1 US 201113010314 A US201113010314 A US 201113010314A US 2012047979 A1 US2012047979 A1 US 2012047979A1
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- Prior art keywords
- tube
- subplate
- seal
- die
- axial cylinder
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D—WORKING OR PROCESSING OF SHEET METAL OR METAL TUBES, RODS OR PROFILES WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D26/00—Shaping without cutting otherwise than using rigid devices or tools or yieldable or resilient pads, i.e. applying fluid pressure or magnetic forces
- B21D26/02—Shaping without cutting otherwise than using rigid devices or tools or yieldable or resilient pads, i.e. applying fluid pressure or magnetic forces by applying fluid pressure
- B21D26/033—Deforming tubular bodies
- B21D26/045—Closing or sealing means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D—WORKING OR PROCESSING OF SHEET METAL OR METAL TUBES, RODS OR PROFILES WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D26/00—Shaping without cutting otherwise than using rigid devices or tools or yieldable or resilient pads, i.e. applying fluid pressure or magnetic forces
- B21D26/02—Shaping without cutting otherwise than using rigid devices or tools or yieldable or resilient pads, i.e. applying fluid pressure or magnetic forces by applying fluid pressure
- B21D26/033—Deforming tubular bodies
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D—WORKING OR PROCESSING OF SHEET METAL OR METAL TUBES, RODS OR PROFILES WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
- B21D26/00—Shaping without cutting otherwise than using rigid devices or tools or yieldable or resilient pads, i.e. applying fluid pressure or magnetic forces
- B21D26/02—Shaping without cutting otherwise than using rigid devices or tools or yieldable or resilient pads, i.e. applying fluid pressure or magnetic forces by applying fluid pressure
- B21D26/033—Deforming tubular bodies
- B21D26/047—Mould construction
Definitions
- Hydroforming systems have been utilized to deform tubes.
- the hydroforming systems may at least partially crush pipes in the central regions of the pipes. Accordingly, the inventors herein have recognized a need for an improved hydro forming die assembly and method.
- a hydroforming die assembly for deforming a tube in accordance with an exemplary embodiment includes a lower die having a first cavity formed therein.
- the hydroforming die assembly further includes a vertically movable upper die disposed above the lower die.
- the vertically movable upper die has a second cavity formed therein.
- the hydro forming die assembly further includes a first sealing assembly disposed proximate to a first end of the lower die.
- the first sealing assembly has a first subplate, a first feed insert, a first axial cylinder, and a first seal cone.
- the first seal cone is coupled to the first axial cylinder.
- the first feed insert and the first axial cylinder are coupled to the first subplate.
- the first subplate is configured to move vertically.
- the hydroforming die assembly further includes a second sealing assembly disposed proximate to a second end of the lower die.
- the second sealing assembly has a second subplate, a second feed insert, a second axial cylinder, and a second seal cone.
- the second seal cone is coupled to the second axial cylinder.
- the second feed insert and the second axial cylinder are coupled to the second subplate.
- the second subplate is configured to move vertically.
- the first and second feed inserts are configured to initially support the tube above the lower die.
- the upper die is configured to move vertically downwardly to contact the tube when the tube is supported on the first and second feed inserts.
- the first and second axial cylinders are configured to move the first and second seal cones, respectively, toward first and second ends of the tube, respectively, to seal the first and second ends of the tube, respectively.
- the first and second seal cones are configured to increase a pressure of a fluid disposed in the tube to obtain pressurized fluid therein.
- the upper die is further configured to move further vertically downwardly against the tube while the tube has the pressurized fluid therein such that the first and second sealing assemblies are moved vertically downwardly and the tube is at least partially deformed into the first and second cavities.
- a method for deforming a tube utilizing a hydroforming die assembly in accordance with another exemplary embodiment is provided.
- the hydroforming die assembly has a lower die with a first cavity formed therein, a vertically movable upper die with a second cavity formed therein, and first and second sealing assemblies.
- the first sealing assembly has a first subplate, a first feed insert, a first axial cylinder, and a first seal cone.
- the first feed insert and the first axial cylinder are coupled to the first subplate.
- the first subplate is configured to move vertically.
- the second sealing assembly has a second subplate, a second feed insert, a second axial cylinder, and a second seal cone.
- the second feed insert and the second axial cylinder are coupled to the second subplate.
- the second subplate is configured to move vertically.
- the method includes supporting the tube above the lower die utilizing the first and second feed inserts.
- the method further includes moving the upper die vertically downwardly to contact the tube when the tube is supported on the first and second feed inserts.
- the method further includes moving the first and second seal cones, respectively, toward first and second ends of the tube, respectively, to seal the first and second ends of the tube, respectively, utilizing the first and second axial cylinders, respectively.
- the method further includes increasing a pressure of a fluid disposed in the tube to obtain pressurized fluid therein utilizing the first and second seal cones.
- the method further includes moving the upper die further vertically downwardly against the tube while the tube has the pressurized fluid therein such that the first and second sealing assemblies are moved vertically downwardly and the tube is at least partially deformed into the first and second cavities.
- FIG. 1 is a view of a hydroforming system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment
- FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of a hydroforming die assembly utilized in the hydroforming system of FIG. 1 ;
- FIGS. 3-10 illustrate different operational positions of the hydroforming die assembly utilized in the hydroforming system of FIG. 1 .
- the hydroforming system 10 for deforming a shape of a tube 12 utilizing fluid within the tube 12 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment is illustrated.
- the hydroforming system 10 includes a hydroforming die assembly 13 , an actuator 14 , a fluid supply system 15 , and a controller 16 .
- the tube 12 is constructed of a metal.
- the tube 12 can be constructed from at least one of steel, aluminum, copper, and stainless steel.
- the hydroforming die assembly 13 is configured to deform the tube 12 to a desired shape utilizing pressurized fluid within the tube 12 .
- the fluid is a water-based fluid.
- the hydroforming die assembly 13 includes a lower baseplate 20 , an upper baseplate 22 , a lower die 24 , an upper die 26 , a sealing assembly 30 , a sealing assembly 32 , and an ejector unit 33 .
- the lower baseplate 20 is configured to hold the lower die 24 and the sealing assembly 30 thereon.
- the lower baseplate 20 is constructed of steel and is substantially rectangular-shaped.
- the upper baseplate 22 is configured to hold the upper die 26 , and the upper feed inserts 52 , 102 thereon.
- the upper baseplate 22 is operably coupled to the actuator 14 .
- the actuator 14 is configured to move the upper baseplate 22 vertically, either upwardly or downwardly, relative to the lower baseplate 20 in response to control signal from the controller 16 .
- the upper baseplate 22 is constructed of steel and is substantially rectangular-shaped.
- the lower die 24 has a first cavity 35 formed therein for shaping at least a portion of the tube 12 .
- the lower die 24 is constructed of a hardened steel and is fixedly coupled to the lower baseplate 20 . In an alternative embodiment, the lower die 24 could have more than one cavity therein.
- the upper die 26 has a second cavity 36 formed therein for shaping at least a portion of the tube 12 .
- the upper die 26 is constructed of a hardened steel and is fixedly coupled to the upper baseplate 22 . In an alternative embodiment, the upper die 26 could have more than one cavity therein.
- the sealing assemblies 30 , 32 are configured to seal first and second ends, respectively, of the tube 12 and to fill the tube 12 with a fluid and to increase a pressure of the fluid within the tube 12 . Further, the sealing assemblies 30 , 32 are configured to move vertically relative to the baseplate 20 .
- the sealing assembly 30 includes a subplate 42 , push bars 44 , 46 , a lower feed insert 50 , an upper feed insert 52 , a seal cone 60 , and an axial cylinder 62 .
- the subplate 42 is constructed of steel and is biased above the baseplate 20 utilizing springs 63 , 64 that are disposed between the subplate 42 and the baseplate 20 .
- the springs can be at least one of metal springs, plastic springs, and gas loaded springs. In an alternative embodiment, the springs can be replaced by a hydraulic cylinder operably coupled between the subplate 42 and the baseplate 20 .
- the push bars 44 , 46 are disposed on the subplate 42 on opposite sides of an axial cylinder 62 disposed on the subplate 42 .
- the push bars 44 , 46 are constructed of steel. When the upper baseplate 22 is lowered towards the lower baseplate 20 , the push bars 44 , 46 contact a lower surface of the baseplate 22 to urge the subplate 42 downwardly against the biasing force of the springs thereof.
- the lower feed insert 50 is coupled on the subplate 42 proximate to a first end of the tube 12 .
- the upper feed insert 52 is coupled to the upper baseplate 22 directly above the lower feed insert 50 .
- the lower feed insert 50 and the upper feed insert 52 are configured to clamp around an end portion of the tube 12 when the actuator 14 moves the upper baseplate 22 toward the lower baseplate 20 .
- the seal cone 60 is operably coupled to the axial cylinder 62 .
- the axial cylinder 112 is configured to move the seal cone 60 axially, either toward the tube 12 or away from the tube 12 , in response to control signals from the controller 16 .
- the seal cone 60 seals a first end of the tube 12 .
- the seal cone 60 includes an aperture extending therethrough for allowing fluid to flow through the seal cone 60 into an interior region of the tube 12 .
- the seal cone 60 is fluidly coupled to the fluid supply system 15 for receiving pressurized fluid from the system 15 .
- the sealing assembly 32 includes a subplate 92 , push bars 94 , 96 , a lower feed insert 100 , an upper feed insert 102 , a seal cone 110 , and an axial cylinder 112 .
- the subplate 92 is constructed of steel and is biased above the baseplate 20 utilizing springs 113 , 114 disposed between the subplate 92 and the baseplate 20 .
- the springs can be at least one of metal springs, plastic springs, and gas loaded springs. In an alternative embodiment, the springs can be replaced by a hydraulic cylinder operably coupled between the subplate 92 and the baseplate 20 .
- the push bars 94 , 96 are disposed on the subplate 92 on opposite sides of an axial cylinder 112 disposed on the subplate 92 .
- the push bars 94 , 96 are constructed of steel. When the upper baseplate 22 is lowered towards the lower baseplate 20 , the push bars 94 , 96 contact a lower surface of the upper baseplate 22 to urge the subplate 92 downwardly against the biasing force of the springs thereof.
- the lower feed insert 100 is coupled on the subplate 92 proximate to a second end of the tube 12 .
- the upper feed insert 102 is coupled to the upper baseplate 22 directly above the lower feed insert 100 .
- the lower feed insert 100 and the upper feed insert 102 are configured to clamp around an end portion of the tube 12 when the actuator 14 moves the upper baseplate 22 toward the lower baseplate 20 .
- the seal cone 110 is operably coupled to the axial cylinder 112 .
- the axial cylinder 112 is configured to move the seal cone 110 axially, either toward the tube 12 or away from the tube 12 , in response to control signals from the controller 16 .
- the seal cone 110 seals a second end of the tube 12 .
- the seal cone 110 includes an aperture extending therethrough for allowing fluid to flow through the seal cone 110 into an interior region of the tube 12 .
- the seal cone 110 is fluidly coupled to the fluid supply system 15 for receiving pressurized fluid from the system 15 .
- the ejector unit 33 is coupled to the lower die 24 and is configured to hold the tube 12 above the lower die 24 , along with the lower feed inserts 50 , 100 , before closing the upper die 26 against the lower die 24 .
- the controller 16 is configured to generate control signals to control operation of the axial cylinder 62 , 112 , and the actuator 14 .
- the controller 16 is a computer.
- the controller 16 is a programmable logic unit.
- the actuator 14 moves the upper baseplate 22 to a full upward position such that a relatively large gap is present between the lower die 24 and the upper die 26 , in response to a control signal from the controller 16 .
- the tube 12 is placed on the feed insert 50 , 100 such that the feed inserts 50 , 100 support the tube 12 above the lower die 24 .
- the actuator 14 moves the baseplate 22 and the upper die 26 vertically downwardly such that the upper die 26 contacts the tube 12 when the tube 12 is supported on the feed inserts 50 , 100 .
- the upper die 26 applies at least 50 tons of force against the tube 12 .
- other amounts of force could be utilized based on the desired tube deformation and tube material type.
- the axial cylinders 62 , 112 move the seal cones 60 , 110 toward the first and second ends, respectively, of the tube 12 such that the seal cones 60 , 110 seal the first and second ends, respectively, of the tube 12 . Further, the seal cones 60 , 110 route pressurized fluid from the fluid supply system 15 into an interior region of the tube 12 to fill the tube 12 with the pressurized fluid.
- the actuator 14 moves the upper die 26 further vertically downwardly against the tube 12 while the tube 12 has at least some pressurized fluid therein such that the sealing assemblies 30 , 32 are also moved vertically downwardly (by the upper die 26 contacting the push bars) and the tube 12 is at least partially deformed into the cavities 35 , 36 .
- the upper die 26 applies a force of at least 5,000 tons on the tube 12 .
- other amounts of force could be utilized based on the desired tube deformation and tube material type.
- the axial cylinders 62 , 112 move the seal cones 60 , 110 further inwardly into the tube 12 .
- the seal cones 60 , 110 route pressurized fluid into the tube 12 to increase a pressure level of the pressurized fluid within the tube 12 to deform the tube 12 into the cavities 35 , 36 .
- the seal cones 60 , 110 route pressurized fluid into the tube 12 having a pressure greater than a yield point pressure level (i.e., Pi max ) of the tube 12 to deform the tube 12 into the cavities 35 , 36 .
- the yield point pressure level may be in a range of 8,000-20,000 psi for example. Of course, other amounts of yield point pressure levels could be utilized based on the tube material type.
- the axial cylinders 62 , 112 may maintain the pressurized fluid in the tube 12 for 1-2 seconds for example.
- other amounts of time could be utilized based on the tube material type and a shape of the cavities.
- the axial cylinders 62 , 112 move the seal cones 60 , 110 , respectively, out of the first and second ends, respectively, of the tube 12 and the pressurized fluid within the deformed tube 12 exits the deformed tube 12 .
- the method steps illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9 can be removed.
- the system 10 can immediately perform the method step shown in FIG. 10 and obtain a deformed tube having a desired shape.
- An advantage of utilizing the hydroforming system 10 is that the system 10 can deform tubes without crushing central regions of the tubes.
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- Shaping Metal By Deep-Drawing, Or The Like (AREA)
Abstract
A hydroforming die assembly for deforming a tube and a method for deforming the tube are provided.
Description
- This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/376,926, filed on Aug. 25, 2010, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
- Hydroforming systems have been utilized to deform tubes. However, the hydroforming systems may at least partially crush pipes in the central regions of the pipes. Accordingly, the inventors herein have recognized a need for an improved hydro forming die assembly and method.
- A hydroforming die assembly for deforming a tube in accordance with an exemplary embodiment is provided. The hydroforming die assembly includes a lower die having a first cavity formed therein. The hydroforming die assembly further includes a vertically movable upper die disposed above the lower die. The vertically movable upper die has a second cavity formed therein. The hydro forming die assembly further includes a first sealing assembly disposed proximate to a first end of the lower die. The first sealing assembly has a first subplate, a first feed insert, a first axial cylinder, and a first seal cone. The first seal cone is coupled to the first axial cylinder. The first feed insert and the first axial cylinder are coupled to the first subplate. The first subplate is configured to move vertically. The hydroforming die assembly further includes a second sealing assembly disposed proximate to a second end of the lower die. The second sealing assembly has a second subplate, a second feed insert, a second axial cylinder, and a second seal cone. The second seal cone is coupled to the second axial cylinder. The second feed insert and the second axial cylinder are coupled to the second subplate. The second subplate is configured to move vertically. The first and second feed inserts are configured to initially support the tube above the lower die. The upper die is configured to move vertically downwardly to contact the tube when the tube is supported on the first and second feed inserts. The first and second axial cylinders are configured to move the first and second seal cones, respectively, toward first and second ends of the tube, respectively, to seal the first and second ends of the tube, respectively. The first and second seal cones are configured to increase a pressure of a fluid disposed in the tube to obtain pressurized fluid therein. The upper die is further configured to move further vertically downwardly against the tube while the tube has the pressurized fluid therein such that the first and second sealing assemblies are moved vertically downwardly and the tube is at least partially deformed into the first and second cavities.
- A method for deforming a tube utilizing a hydroforming die assembly in accordance with another exemplary embodiment is provided. The hydroforming die assembly has a lower die with a first cavity formed therein, a vertically movable upper die with a second cavity formed therein, and first and second sealing assemblies. The first sealing assembly has a first subplate, a first feed insert, a first axial cylinder, and a first seal cone. The first feed insert and the first axial cylinder are coupled to the first subplate. The first subplate is configured to move vertically. The second sealing assembly has a second subplate, a second feed insert, a second axial cylinder, and a second seal cone. The second feed insert and the second axial cylinder are coupled to the second subplate. The second subplate is configured to move vertically. The method includes supporting the tube above the lower die utilizing the first and second feed inserts. The method further includes moving the upper die vertically downwardly to contact the tube when the tube is supported on the first and second feed inserts. The method further includes moving the first and second seal cones, respectively, toward first and second ends of the tube, respectively, to seal the first and second ends of the tube, respectively, utilizing the first and second axial cylinders, respectively. The method further includes increasing a pressure of a fluid disposed in the tube to obtain pressurized fluid therein utilizing the first and second seal cones. The method further includes moving the upper die further vertically downwardly against the tube while the tube has the pressurized fluid therein such that the first and second sealing assemblies are moved vertically downwardly and the tube is at least partially deformed into the first and second cavities.
-
FIG. 1 is a view of a hydroforming system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment; -
FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of a hydroforming die assembly utilized in the hydroforming system ofFIG. 1 ; and -
FIGS. 3-10 illustrate different operational positions of the hydroforming die assembly utilized in the hydroforming system ofFIG. 1 . - Referring to
FIG. 1 , ahydroforming system 10 for deforming a shape of atube 12 utilizing fluid within thetube 12 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment is illustrated. Thehydroforming system 10 includes ahydroforming die assembly 13, anactuator 14, afluid supply system 15, and acontroller 16. Thetube 12 is constructed of a metal. For example, thetube 12 can be constructed from at least one of steel, aluminum, copper, and stainless steel. - The
hydroforming die assembly 13 is configured to deform thetube 12 to a desired shape utilizing pressurized fluid within thetube 12. In one exemplary embodiment, the fluid is a water-based fluid. Of course, other types of fluids could be utilized. Thehydroforming die assembly 13 includes alower baseplate 20, anupper baseplate 22, alower die 24, anupper die 26, asealing assembly 30, asealing assembly 32, and anejector unit 33. - The
lower baseplate 20 is configured to hold thelower die 24 and thesealing assembly 30 thereon. Thelower baseplate 20 is constructed of steel and is substantially rectangular-shaped. - The
upper baseplate 22 is configured to hold theupper die 26, and theupper feed inserts upper baseplate 22 is operably coupled to theactuator 14. Theactuator 14 is configured to move theupper baseplate 22 vertically, either upwardly or downwardly, relative to thelower baseplate 20 in response to control signal from thecontroller 16. Theupper baseplate 22 is constructed of steel and is substantially rectangular-shaped. - Referring to
FIGS. 1 and 3 , thelower die 24 has afirst cavity 35 formed therein for shaping at least a portion of thetube 12. Thelower die 24 is constructed of a hardened steel and is fixedly coupled to thelower baseplate 20. In an alternative embodiment, thelower die 24 could have more than one cavity therein. - The
upper die 26 has asecond cavity 36 formed therein for shaping at least a portion of thetube 12. Theupper die 26 is constructed of a hardened steel and is fixedly coupled to theupper baseplate 22. In an alternative embodiment, the upper die 26 could have more than one cavity therein. - Referring to
FIG. 1 , thesealing assemblies tube 12 and to fill thetube 12 with a fluid and to increase a pressure of the fluid within thetube 12. Further, the sealingassemblies baseplate 20. - Referring to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , the sealingassembly 30 includes asubplate 42, push bars 44, 46, alower feed insert 50, anupper feed insert 52, aseal cone 60, and anaxial cylinder 62. Thesubplate 42 is constructed of steel and is biased above thebaseplate 20 utilizingsprings baseplate 20. The springs can be at least one of metal springs, plastic springs, and gas loaded springs. In an alternative embodiment, the springs can be replaced by a hydraulic cylinder operably coupled between the subplate 42 and thebaseplate 20. - The push bars 44, 46 are disposed on the
subplate 42 on opposite sides of anaxial cylinder 62 disposed on thesubplate 42. The push bars 44, 46 are constructed of steel. When theupper baseplate 22 is lowered towards thelower baseplate 20, the push bars 44, 46 contact a lower surface of thebaseplate 22 to urge thesubplate 42 downwardly against the biasing force of the springs thereof. - The
lower feed insert 50 is coupled on thesubplate 42 proximate to a first end of thetube 12. Theupper feed insert 52 is coupled to theupper baseplate 22 directly above thelower feed insert 50. Thelower feed insert 50 and theupper feed insert 52 are configured to clamp around an end portion of thetube 12 when theactuator 14 moves theupper baseplate 22 toward thelower baseplate 20. - The
seal cone 60 is operably coupled to theaxial cylinder 62. Theaxial cylinder 112 is configured to move theseal cone 60 axially, either toward thetube 12 or away from thetube 12, in response to control signals from thecontroller 16. When theaxial cylinder 62 moves theseal cone 60 toward thetube 12, theseal cone 60 seals a first end of thetube 12. Theseal cone 60 includes an aperture extending therethrough for allowing fluid to flow through theseal cone 60 into an interior region of thetube 12. Theseal cone 60 is fluidly coupled to thefluid supply system 15 for receiving pressurized fluid from thesystem 15. - Referring to
FIG. 1 , the sealingassembly 32 includes asubplate 92, push bars 94, 96, alower feed insert 100, anupper feed insert 102, aseal cone 110, and anaxial cylinder 112. Thesubplate 92 is constructed of steel and is biased above thebaseplate 20 utilizingsprings baseplate 20. The springs can be at least one of metal springs, plastic springs, and gas loaded springs. In an alternative embodiment, the springs can be replaced by a hydraulic cylinder operably coupled between the subplate 92 and thebaseplate 20. - The push bars 94, 96 are disposed on the
subplate 92 on opposite sides of anaxial cylinder 112 disposed on thesubplate 92. The push bars 94, 96 are constructed of steel. When theupper baseplate 22 is lowered towards thelower baseplate 20, the push bars 94, 96 contact a lower surface of theupper baseplate 22 to urge thesubplate 92 downwardly against the biasing force of the springs thereof. - The
lower feed insert 100 is coupled on thesubplate 92 proximate to a second end of thetube 12. Theupper feed insert 102 is coupled to theupper baseplate 22 directly above thelower feed insert 100. Thelower feed insert 100 and theupper feed insert 102 are configured to clamp around an end portion of thetube 12 when theactuator 14 moves theupper baseplate 22 toward thelower baseplate 20. - The
seal cone 110 is operably coupled to theaxial cylinder 112. Theaxial cylinder 112 is configured to move theseal cone 110 axially, either toward thetube 12 or away from thetube 12, in response to control signals from thecontroller 16. When theaxial cylinder 112 moves theseal cone 110 toward thetube 12, theseal cone 110 seals a second end of thetube 12. Theseal cone 110 includes an aperture extending therethrough for allowing fluid to flow through theseal cone 110 into an interior region of thetube 12. Theseal cone 110 is fluidly coupled to thefluid supply system 15 for receiving pressurized fluid from thesystem 15. - The
ejector unit 33 is coupled to thelower die 24 and is configured to hold thetube 12 above thelower die 24, along with the lower feed inserts 50, 100, before closing theupper die 26 against thelower die 24. - The
controller 16 is configured to generate control signals to control operation of theaxial cylinder actuator 14. In one exemplary embodiment, thecontroller 16 is a computer. In another exemplary embodiment, thecontroller 16 is a programmable logic unit. - Referring to
FIGS. 3-10 , a method for deforming thetube 12 utilizing thehydroforming system 10 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment will now be explained. - Referring to
FIG. 3 , initially, theactuator 14 moves theupper baseplate 22 to a full upward position such that a relatively large gap is present between thelower die 24 and theupper die 26, in response to a control signal from thecontroller 16. - Next, referring to
FIG. 4 , thetube 12 is placed on thefeed insert tube 12 above thelower die 24. - Next, referring to
FIG. 5 , theactuator 14 moves thebaseplate 22 and theupper die 26 vertically downwardly such that the upper die 26 contacts thetube 12 when thetube 12 is supported on the feed inserts 50, 100. In one exemplary embodiment, theupper die 26 applies at least 50 tons of force against thetube 12. Of course, other amounts of force could be utilized based on the desired tube deformation and tube material type. - Next, referring to
FIG. 6 , theaxial cylinders seal cones tube 12 such that theseal cones tube 12. Further, theseal cones fluid supply system 15 into an interior region of thetube 12 to fill thetube 12 with the pressurized fluid. - Next, referring to
FIG. 7 , theactuator 14 moves theupper die 26 further vertically downwardly against thetube 12 while thetube 12 has at least some pressurized fluid therein such that thesealing assemblies upper die 26 contacting the push bars) and thetube 12 is at least partially deformed into thecavities upper die 26 applies a force of at least 5,000 tons on thetube 12. Of course, other amounts of force could be utilized based on the desired tube deformation and tube material type. - Next, referring to
FIG. 8 , optionally theaxial cylinders seal cones tube 12. Further, theseal cones tube 12 to increase a pressure level of the pressurized fluid within thetube 12 to deform thetube 12 into thecavities seal cones tube 12 having a pressure greater than a yield point pressure level (i.e., Pimax) of thetube 12 to deform thetube 12 into thecavities - Next, referring to
FIG. 9 , optionally theaxial cylinders tube 12 for 1-2 seconds for example. Of course, other amounts of time could be utilized based on the tube material type and a shape of the cavities. - Next, referring to
FIG. 10 , theaxial cylinders seal cones tube 12 and the pressurized fluid within thedeformed tube 12 exits thedeformed tube 12. - In an alternative embodiment of the above method, the method steps illustrated in
FIGS. 8 and 9 can be removed. For example, in an alternative method, after performing the method steps ofFIGS. 3-7 , thesystem 10 can immediately perform the method step shown inFIG. 10 and obtain a deformed tube having a desired shape. - An advantage of utilizing the
hydroforming system 10 is that thesystem 10 can deform tubes without crushing central regions of the tubes. - While the invention has been described in detail in connection with only a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that the invention is not limited to such disclosed embodiments. Rather, the invention can be modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described, but which are commensurate with the spirit and scope of the invention. Additionally, while various embodiments of the invention have been described, it is to be understood that aspects of the invention may include only some of the described embodiments. Accordingly, the invention is not to be seen as limited by the foregoing description.
Claims (4)
1. A hydroforming die assembly for deforming a tube, comprising:
a lower die having a first cavity formed therein;
a vertically movable upper die disposed above the lower die, the vertically movable upper die having a second cavity formed therein;
a first sealing assembly disposed proximate to a first end of the lower die, the first sealing assembly having a first subplate, a first feed insert, a first axial cylinder, and a first seal cone, the first seal cone coupled to the first axial cylinder, the first feed insert and the first axial cylinder coupled to the first subplate, the first subplate configured to move vertically;
a second sealing assembly disposed proximate to a second end of the lower die, the second sealing assembly having a second subplate, a second feed insert, a second axial cylinder, and a second seal cone, the second seal cone coupled to the second axial cylinder, the second feed insert and the second axial cylinder coupled to the second subplate, the second subplate configured to move vertically;
the first and second feed inserts configured to initially support the tube above the lower die;
the upper die being configured to move vertically downwardly to contact the tube when the tube is supported on the first and second feed inserts;
the first and second axial cylinders configured to move the first and second seal cones, respectively, toward first and second ends of the tube, respectively, to seal the first and second ends of the tube, respectively, the first and second seal cones configured to increase a pressure of a fluid disposed in the tube to obtain pressurized fluid therein; and
the upper die being further configured to move further vertically downwardly against the tube while the tube has the pressurized fluid therein such that the first and second sealing assemblies are moved vertically downwardly and the tube is at least partially deformed into the first and second cavities.
2. The hydroforming die assembly of claim 1 , further comprising:
the first and second axial cylinders further configured to move the first and second seal cones, respectively, further inwardly into the first and second ends of the tube, respectively, the first and second seal cones further configured to further increase the pressure of the fluid in the tube to deform the tube into the first and second cavities.
3. A method for deforming a tube utilizing a hydroforming die assembly, the hydroforming die assembly having a lower die with a first cavity formed therein, a vertically movable upper die with a second cavity formed therein, and first and second sealing assemblies, the first sealing assembly having a first subplate, a first feed insert, a first axial cylinder, and a first seal cone, the first feed insert and the first axial cylinder coupled to the first subplate, the first subplate configured to move vertically, the second sealing assembly having a second subplate, a second feed insert, a second axial cylinder, and a second seal cone, the second feed insert and the second axial cylinder coupled to the second subplate, the second subplate configured to move vertically, the method comprising:
supporting the tube above the lower die utilizing the first and second feed inserts;
moving the upper die being vertically downwardly to contact the tube when the tube is supported on the first and second feed inserts;
moving the first and second seal cones, respectively, toward first and second ends of the tube, respectively, to seal the first and second ends of the tube, respectively, utilizing the first and second axial cylinders, respectively;
increasing a pressure of a fluid disposed in the tube to obtain pressurized fluid therein utilizing the first and second seal cones; and
moving the upper die further vertically downwardly against the tube while the tube has the pressurized fluid therein such that the first and second sealing assemblies are moved vertically downwardly and the tube is at least partially deformed into the first and second cavities.
4. The method of claim 3 , further comprising:
moving the first and second seal cones, respectively, further inwardly into the first and second ends of the tube, respectively, utilizing the first and second axial cylinders, respectively; and
increasing the pressure of the fluid in the tube to deform the tube into the first and second cavities utilizing the first and second seal cones.
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/010,314 US20120047979A1 (en) | 2010-08-25 | 2011-01-20 | Hydroforming die assembly and method for deforming a tube |
CA2746896A CA2746896A1 (en) | 2010-08-25 | 2011-07-19 | Hydroforming die assembly and method for deforming a tube |
MX2011008887A MX2011008887A (en) | 2010-08-25 | 2011-08-23 | Hydroforming die assembly and method for deforming a tube. |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US37692610P | 2010-08-25 | 2010-08-25 | |
US13/010,314 US20120047979A1 (en) | 2010-08-25 | 2011-01-20 | Hydroforming die assembly and method for deforming a tube |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20120047979A1 true US20120047979A1 (en) | 2012-03-01 |
Family
ID=45695339
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/010,314 Abandoned US20120047979A1 (en) | 2010-08-25 | 2011-01-20 | Hydroforming die assembly and method for deforming a tube |
Country Status (3)
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---|---|
US (1) | US20120047979A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2746896A1 (en) |
MX (1) | MX2011008887A (en) |
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CN103272911A (en) * | 2013-05-28 | 2013-09-04 | 浙江大学宁波理工学院 | Inner high pressure forming quick die assembling method and equipment |
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CN103962408A (en) * | 2014-05-29 | 2014-08-06 | 河北宏润重工股份有限公司 | Extrusion forming mould for branch pipes of main nuclear pipeline |
US20140354013A1 (en) * | 2013-05-28 | 2014-12-04 | Continental Structural Plastics, Inc. | Hydro-form bonded bolster |
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US20030010079A1 (en) * | 2001-07-14 | 2003-01-16 | Benteler Automobiltechnik Gmbh & Co. Kg | Apparatus for sealing an end portion of a tubular workpiece in a mold for internal high-pressure forming |
US20070017267A1 (en) * | 2004-12-28 | 2007-01-25 | Nelson Wagner | Apparatus and method for performing a hydroforming process |
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MX2011008887A (en) | 2012-02-24 |
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