Mathematical modelling of the superplastic forming of a long rectangular sheet

Standard finite element software (ANSYS FEM-code) is used to model the superplastic forming of a superplastic sheet alloy into a rectangular die. As distinct from other known approaches the boundary value problem is stated in the present study in terms of the theory of creep. The results of finite element calculations are found to be in a good agreement with corresponding analytical solutions and experimental data for titanium sheet alloy Ti-6Al-4V. The approach suggested can be used in practice for estimating the current geometry and the thickness of the dome and the time intervals both for the constant gas pressure forming and for the constant strain rate forming. (C) 2002 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.