Numerical and Experimental Analysis for Large Radius Deformation of Stainless Steels by Laser Forming Process
In an effort to develop a process free of dedicated tooling, this research seeks to study large radius deformation by laser forming. Experimental testing was conducted to determine how the laser parameters affect the single pass output bend angle as well as the additive bend angle from successive parallel, evenly spaced laser irradiations. As an extension of the previous developments, this work seeks to develop a three-dimensional model to simulate the multi-scan laser process. It is of interest to determine how sophisticated a three-dimensional case is required for sufficient agreement to experimental data. The simulated results of bending angle are compared with experimental data and suggestions for future study include the implementation of phase transformation and microstructure data within the model to account for stress development resulting from phase transformation and grain growth.