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KyleT
Member

Join Date: Dec 2010
Posts: 9
Good Answers: 2

Low Cost Hydroforming of AL Sheet

12/02/2010 9:05 AM

I'm trying to determine if it is potentially cost effective to replace thin-walled AL castings with hydroformed sheet for parts ranging in size from ~5" to ~16" with annual volumes ranging from a few hundred to several thousand. Many of them are LH and RH pairs that could potentially be formed together.

These are not high precision parts and we have considerable design flexibility to accomodate the process. I can see how the forming operation itself could be cost effective but am concerned about trimming operations eliminating the benefit.

Can anyone speak to these issues and/or recommend potential hydroforming service suppliers whose cost structures aren't based on aerospace? We are located in south central Michigan.

Thank you,

Kyle
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Tornado
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Technical Fields - Technical Writing - New Member Engineering Fields - Piping Design Engineering - New Member

Join Date: May 2009
Location: Richland, WA, USA
Posts: 21017
Good Answers: 795
#1

Re: Low Cost Hydroforming of AL Sheet

12/02/2010 10:01 AM

Depending on the shape, that could work. Deep drawing and spinning might also be suitable. A search of the Thomas Register for phrases like hydroforming, deep drawing, metal spinning, or metal forming services might turn up something nearby.

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mtdmaker
Associate

Join Date: Feb 2008
Posts: 47
#2

Re: Low Cost Hydroforming of AL Sheet

12/05/2010 8:08 AM

I could deep draw it for you and do any trimming. I can draw up to 150 tons and 9" deep.
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KyleT
Member

Join Date: Dec 2010
Posts: 9
Good Answers: 2
#3
In reply to #2

Re: Low Cost Hydroforming of AL Sheet

12/05/2010 11:55 AM

mtdmaker,

Are you referring to deep draw hydroforming or conventional? I'm positive that conventional deep drawing would not be cost effective.

If you are referring to hydroforming, I believe that some of the parts would require it, but many are shallow and simple shapes that would not. Where are you located? How can I send you some dwg details for an initial feasibility check and budgetary estimates?

Kyle
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mtdmaker
Associate

Join Date: Feb 2008
Posts: 47
#4
In reply to #3

Re: Low Cost Hydroforming of AL Sheet

12/05/2010 12:03 PM

I can do both,fax me your drawings to 954-938-6252 or email me mtdmaker@aol.com

We can go from there.
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