Flow-forming and flow formability simulation

Forward flow forming of tubes have been simulated using an explicit commercial finite element program. Variation of contact geometry considering plastic flow has been calculated based on the proposed criterion. Also flow formability of tube materials have been calculated during forward flow-forming process. Contact geometry simulation results as the variation of S-to-L ratios with feed rates and two attack angles have been compared with outcomes of geometrically based equations. The effects of attack angles and feed rates on the flow formability have been also evaluated. The simulation results have been compared with existing experimental results and validities of outcomes have been shown.