Abstract
Abstract
The applicability and productivity of the hydroforming process can be increased by combining pre- and post-forming processes such as bending, piercing, and embedding. For the fabrication of structural parts, hollow bodies with connecting nuts are widely used to connect parts together. It usually requires multiple steps and devices for welding and/or screwing. Therefore, the hydro-embedding process, which combines hydraulic embedding of the connection element with the hydroforming process, is investigated in this study. To increase the connection force, the authors focus on the optimization of the shape of the connection element and rotational embedding of the connection element. The effects of the shape of the screw tip, the screw thread, and the thread shape on the connection force have been investigated, and the optimal shape of the connection element has been determined. To estimate the effect of rotational embedding of the connection element, a trial process has been successfully implemented in this study and an increased connection force has been achieved.