Finite element investigation of curvature in the roll platen forming process

A novel roll-platen forming process described in this paper has been proposed for the production of elongated components to net shape or near net shape. Although significant progress in net shape forging has been achieved in circular and axisymmetric components through flashless forging with completely closed die cavity techniques, similar progress has not been reported for elongated components. The feasibility of this process has been demonstrated through physical modelling experiments with Plasticine. This process essentially consists of a single roll and a flat platen. The platen can move with a speed equal to or higher than that of the peripheral speed of the roll. When it moves with a higher speed, the deformed workpiece becomes curved. With this characteristic, the roll-platen forming process seems promising for the manufacture of curved elongate components to near net shape. This paper presents an investigation of how the curvature is influenced by the speed ratio. The detailed results of curvature, as well as the distribution of generalised strain, strain rate, and mass flow will be given. The finite-element predicted curvature is shown to agree with previous experimental observations.