Forming of flat parts with ribs from magnesium alloy

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this research is working out of a new forming technology of flat parts with ribs from magnesium alloys with the application of a three-slide forging press (TSFP) for the aircraft industry.

Design/methodology/approach

New possibilities of forming aviation parts with ribs gives the application of a prototype TSFP. This press consists of three moveable tools and has wider technological possibilities than typical forging machines. It was assumed that this machine (press) application would allow for obtaining ribbed flat forgings from magnesium alloys of good functional and resistance qualities. A characteristic feature of such forgings forming is the working movement of two side tools, which upset the billet in the form of a plate; the result of their action is forming of one or more ribs in the plane central part. It is possible to use the upper punch to form appropriate rib outline. Theoretical research works based on simulations by means of finite element method were conducted for three cases of the process: semi-free forging of parts with one rib, semi-free forming of forgings with two ribs and forging in closed impression of parts with one rib of triangular outline. The first experimental tests were made on a TSFP for the variant of semi-free forging of parts with one rib.

Findings

Research results show that there exists the possibility of realization of forming process of parts with ribs according to the conception assumed by the authors. Positive results of theoretical analyses justify the purposefulness of conducting experimental verification for the proposed theoretical solutions of the forging processes of parts with one rib of triangular outline and with two ribs.

Practical implications

Production of flat parts with ribs from magnesium alloys basing on the worked out by the authors’ technology will allow for improving functional and mechanical properties of parts and for lowering their manufacturing costs. At present, such aviation parts are imported to Poland in the form of casts, which are expensive and not always fulfill the requirements. Additionally, large amount of machining at manufacturing of this type of parts generate larger price at their production.

Originality/value

Forging technology of parts with ribs in a TSFP is unique on a world scale. The advantages of this technology are the process material savings and better resistance properties of the formed forgings with ribs than parts obtained in a traditional way.

Citation

Gontarz, A. and Dziubińska, A. (2014), "Forming of flat parts with ribs from magnesium alloy", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 86 No. 4, pp. 356-360. https://doi.org/10.1108/AEAT-10-2012-0188