Study on the effect of multi-point stretch-bending processing conditions on the section distortion of complex cross-sectional parts

Section distortion is a common defect in plastic forming, however, excessive section distortion will affect the actual use of the workpiece. In this paper, the finite element software ABAQUS is used to simulate the multi-point flexible stretch-bending process. Processing parameters are important factors in the forming process of the profile, so this paper discusses the effects of three processing parameters, namely the effects of pre-stretching amount, pro-stretching amount and friction coefficient on section distortion under different bending radius, taking the complex cross-sectional T-profile as an example. And the validity of the simulation results is verified by comparing with the experimental results and the simulation results. At the same time, the upper limit value of section distortion is given according to the actual assembly and use of aluminium profile components of high-speed train head frame, and the minimum bending radius (i.e., processing limit) for which the section distortion does not exceed the given value under different process parameters is explored and used for practical production guidance.