Optimization of Bending Process Parameters for Seamless Tubes Using Taguchi Method and Finite Element Method

The three-dimensional tube (or pipe) is manufactured by CNC tube bending machine. The key techniques are determined by tube diameter, wall thickness, material, and bending radius. The obtained technique through experience and the trial and error method is unreliable. Finite element method (FEM) simulation for the tube bending process before production can avoid wasting manpower and raw materials. The computer-aided engineering (CAE) software ABAQUS 6.12 is applied to simulate bending characteristics and to explore the maximum stress and strain conditions. The Taguchi method is used to find the optimal parameters of bending. The confirmation experiment is performed according to optimal parameters. Results indicate that the strain error between CAE simulation and bending experiments is within 6.39%.