Numerical and Experimental Investigation of Thermoplastics in Multi-Axis Forming Processes

Abstract

Process planning for multi-axis forming presses is a particular challenge. This process provides the option to actively influencing the material flow in the forming process by defining a six dimensional tool motion path and the tool velocity. By comprehending this interaction, it is possible to control and thereby tailor the induced local material properties of the workpiece. Experiments were conducted with a multi-axis press, which is based on a Stewart platform. A simple plane workpiece geometry is chosen to analyse the flow behaviour and the temperature evolution of the glass mat thermoplastics (GMT) during the forming process. Subsequently, a numerical simulation of the multi-axis forming process is carried out and validated with the experimental data. The numerical analysis focuses on the material modelling as well as the prediction of the flow characteristics. Regarding material modelling of GMT, an extensive material characterization is performed to describe the flow behaviour. A prediction of the flow behaviour of GMT with reference to tool motion is enabled. For the FE simulation the element-free Galerkin method (EFG) is applied for modelling the fluid structure interaction and adaptive procedures.