Experimental and numerical analysis of titanium/aluminum clad metal sheets in sheet hydroforming

Clad metals are becoming increasingly emphasized in sheet metal applications. In this research, sheet hydroforming process (SHF) was adopted to improve the formability of Ti/Al clad metal sheets and SUS 304 metal sheets used in computer, communication, and consumer product housings. Both finite element simulation and experimental verification were carried out to investigate the deformation of blanks. Several significant process parameters, such as holding force, friction, counter pressure history, and blank dimensions, were discussed for improving the formability of the two metal sheets. In SHF simulation, a virtual film technique was proposed to realistically approach the hydraulic loading condition during SHF. Finally, the deformed shape and thickness distribution of parts manufactured with SHF were compared with the results of simulation. Good agreements were obtained.