Numerical Optimization of the Blank Dimensions in Tube Hydroforming Using Line-Search and Bisection Methods

The change from a consolidated manufacturing practice to a new solution is often a complex problem because of the operative limits of technologies and the strict constraints of industrial parts. Moreover, the new process must reflect or enhance the characteristics of the product and, overall, it must be more competitive in performances and costs. Accordingly, the development of a new process is a multilevel and multivariate problem that requires a systematic and hierarchical approach. The present paper focuses on the development of a Tube Hydroforming process capable to replace the current practice for production of T-Joint parts made of AISI 316L for the water pipes market. In particular, the problem must withstand many process and product constraints. Therefore, it was split in three steps focused on specific aspects of the process: identification of process parameters and configuration, numerical optimization of the blank tube dimensions (length and thickness), experimental tests and final improvements. In particular, two numerical methods were implemented in the optimization step: the line–search method to approach to the optimum point and Bisection method to refine the search. These approaches allowed us to identify the optimum process configuration and, in particular, the optimal dimensions of the blank tube that allows one to achieve the product requirements with the minimum cost of material.