Simulation and Analysis of Die Behavior During Bulge Forming Using the Finite Element Method

Many of numerical analyzes of bulge forming processes have concentrated exclusively on the behavior of the deforming tube, with little analysis of the die behavior during the process. Finite element models have been developed to simulate axisymmetric tube bulging, with particular emphasis on the state of stress and deformation of the die. The effects of using internal pressure alone and combined internal pressure and axial compressive load were investigated and it was found that the development of stress and the location of maximum stress was dependant on the type of loading used.