Numerical evaluation of forging process designs of a hybrid co-extruded demonstrator consisting of steel and aluminium.

Abstract

Multi-material solutions represent a promising approach for the production of load-optimised parts. The combination of material-specific advantages of different materials in a single component allows the fulfilment of conflicting requirements e.g. high performance and low weight. Fabrication of hybrid components is challenging due to the dissimilar properties of the individual materials and requires the development of suitable manufacturing technologies. The present paper deals with the simulation-based design of a forming process for the production of a suspension control arm consisting of steel and aluminium. With the focus on material flow, two forming concepts, open-die and closed-die forging, were investigated, in order to ensure the required material distribution similar to the final part. In addition, a tool analysis was carried out to avoid thermo-mechanical overload of the tool system. It was found that the required material distribution can be achieved with both forming concepts. However, a closed-die forging concept is not suitable because of the high stresses in the forging dies exceed the tool steel's strength.