Blank optimization for free bulging of Inconel 718 to maximize bulged height at high temperatures

Abstract

Thickness profiled blank is designed via the optimization technique to maximize the bulged height in free bulging for Inconel 718. The thickness of the blank is described by the Bezier curve by using four control points. The location of each control points is used for the design variables of optimization. The material parameters for the flow stress equation of Inconel 718 are obtained from the free bulging test at constant pressure condition by using a flat blank and verified via numerical analysis. The objective function and constraints for optimization are the maximization of the bulged height within a limited strain range. The equivalent static load method for non-linear static response structural optimization with a move limit scheme is used for optimization. The result of optimization shows 21.95% increased bulged height and uniformly distributed strain after bulging. The free bulging test using blank with optimized profile is conducted to verify the optimization process. The results of bulged height and deformed shape are compared with those from numerical analysis, and the comparison shows good agreement.