Forming containers for PCM materials using a hydrotechnical method with an elastomer

Abstract

In this work, the authors present the method of forming by oil exerting pressure on the elastic punch forming the shape of a container for phase change material (PCM). Thanks to the use of two elastomer plates with a hardness of 65 and 80 Shore, the obtained part has mapped stiffeners in the middle and the appropriate depth of the bowl. This method is not widespread due to the precise design ensuring tightness of the load system of the formed blank. By reducing the tool costs, this method is used in particular in the case of unit production of prototype parts or small production series. The authors carried out tests of mechanical properties of the material, numerical analysis of feasibility with the FEM, real (workshop) trials after previous optimization by trial and error through structural changes of the tool. This allowed to obtain the best material drawing parameters for given boundary conditions. The research allowed to eliminate significant stresses and thinning in finished parts and corners of PCM containers.