Manufacture of Bead-Stiffened Panels Using the Single Point Incremental Sheet Forming Technique

Abstract

This paper presents the results of experimental research on the fabrication of thin-walled panels with longitudinal stiffening ribs by the single point incremental sheet forming technique. The bead-stiffened panels were made of Alclad 2024-T3 aluminium alloy sheets commonly used in aircraft structures. The influence of forming parameters and tool strategy on surface quality and the possibility of obtaining stiffening ribs with the required profile and depth was tested through experimental research. Two tool path strategies, spiral with continuous sinking and multi-step z-level contouring, were considered. The results of the experiments were used to verify the finite element-based numerical simulations of the incremental forming process. It was found that the main parameter which influences the formability of test sheets is the tool path strategy; the tool path strategy with multi-step z-level contouring allowed the rib to be formed to a depth of 3.53 mm without risk of cracking. However a greater depth of rib equal of 5.56 mm was achieved with the continuous tool path. The tool path strategy was also the main parameter influencing the surface finish of the drawpiece during the single point incremental forming process.

Keywords

• aluminium alloy
• incremental sheet forming
• numerical modelling
• thin-walled structure