Study of the Formation of Large-Diameter Pipes with the Use Modern Computer Systems

Abstract

A new approach needs to be taken to the formation of high-strength thick-walled steel line pipe, since such pipe is characterized by a higher springback coefficient and greater deforming force than ordinary thin-walled pipes. A description is given of a two-dimensional numerical model for forming pipes in accordance with the JCOE scheme. Results are presented from experimental studies performed with the use of noncontact methods to measure the geometric parameters of tubular semifinished products on the stepped-forming section of a TESA 1420 line. The experimental results are compared to the results obtained by mathematical modeling. The results obtained from the investigation as a whole show that computer systems can be used to evaluate the effect of deviations in the geometries of the initial semifinished product and the deforming tool on the geometry of the tubular semifinished product after the forming operation. Such evaluations will make it possible to review present requirements on the initial semifinished product and the methods currently used to assess geometric accuracy after forming, as well as to correct the existing deformation regimes.