Sensitivity of model parameters in stretch bending of aluminium extrusions

Stretch bending is a process of considerable importance for plastic forming purposes. Effective operations in the industry demand sufficient knowledge of how different parameters influence the process as well as the final shape of the product. Numerical simulations are an effective way of investigating these issues. However, the numerical model must be validated in order to obtain reliable results. This paper presents an analysis model in the code LS-DYNA which is shown to represent the behaviour in laboratory tests well. The model is subsequently used to check the influence of certain parameters on the response in a stretch bending process. Simple, analytical methods are also presented. It is shown that the local deformations of the cross-section during bending are primarily controlled by the geometry and tensile force level. The main parameters influencing the springback during unloading are the strain hardening properties of the material, and the tensile force. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.