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 sha pe of the product. Numerical simulations are an effective way of investigat ing these issues. However, the numerical model must be validated in order t o obtain reliable results. This paper presents an analysis model in the cod e LS-DYNA which is shown to represent the behaviour in laboratory tests wel l. The model is subsequently used to check the influence of certain paramet ers on the response in a stretch bending process. Simple, analytical method s 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 unloadi ng are the strain hardening properties of the material, and the tensile for ce. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.