Optimization of loading conditions for tube hydroforming

Tube hydroforming is a developing technology with advanced features of lightness and unified part. This study investigates the best possible regulation for loading conditions between the internal pressure and the axial feeding by hydroforming of a T-shape metal tube. Using conjugate gradient method with finite element method, a program module is generated to check the hydroformed tube quality about its thickness uniformity and the geometry accuracy. Thereby, a batch mode and a sequential mode to optimize the loading conditions of the tube hydroforming process are created and investigated. Regarding the tube quality from the simulation results, the hydroforming process, which follows the loading curve generated by the sequential mode, is better than by the batch mode. The optimal loading procedure generated by this article can offer another possibility for engineer by determining the internal pressure and the axial feeding in tube hydroforming.