Automotive Hydroformed Parts are the corrosion-resistant and seamless components that are used to replace the traditional stamping process

 

Automotive Hydroformed Parts

Automotive hydroformed parts, also known as hydroformed steel, are an ideal solution for manufacturing lightweight, strong, and durable automotive components. General Motors began using hydroforming technology in 2006, when it was first introduced to produce body panels and other structural components. This new process has the potential to drastically reduce the weight and space requirements of many automobiles. In the meantime, it also offers structural and crash performance benefits.

Tube hydroforming is a cost-effective method of shaping ductile metals to produce structurally strong yet lightweight pieces. This technique has a wide range of applications in the automotive industry, including engine cradles, door panels, and roofs. Automotive hydroformed parts have greater dimensional tolerances than welded parts. The advantages of hydroforming are substantial. Compared to welded parts, these parts are much lighter and more durable.

The process of making Automotive Hydroformed Parts allows manufacturers to achieve tight tolerances. A part can be manufactured to within a single micron. For instance, an airplane can have a tolerance of 0.76 mm, while a sheet metal component may have a tolerance of 1/30th inch. The process also produces parts with a smoother finish than traditional sheet metal production. For this reason, a computerized press control system can be installed to meet the model run's production needs.

Hydroforming can also be used in other markets. Plumbing fittings, building products, and lifting devices are examples of applications for this process. The advantages of automotive hydroformed parts are many. In addition to improving the stiffness-to-weight ratio of components, they can also be cheaper to produce per unit. They can be made of a variety of materials, including aluminum, brass, carbon steel, copper, and stainless steel. Hydroformed parts are also ideal for medical devices, portable devices, and aerospace.

In addition to automotive hydroformed parts, hydroforming can also be used in the manufacturing of tube branch parts. The process of hydroforming tube branch parts is complex and less covered in the literature. These parts must be pre-bent before they are fed into the hydroforming die. These bending discs are inserted sequentially around the tube. As the tube enters the hydroforming die, the die bends the tube length. A few additional considerations should be considered in hydroformed tube branch parts.

Automotive hydroformed parts are divided into two broad segments: passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles. Passenger vehicle sales are expected to account for the largest portion of automotive hydroformed parts sales. Rising disposable incomes and the need for smaller automobiles are contributing to this trend. Further sub-segments within passenger vehicles include compact hatchbacks, mid-size sedans, SUVs, and performance vehicles. All segments of passenger cars are expected to experience a growth in demand for seamless products in the coming years, which will fuel the parts manufacturing industry.

The versatility of Automotive Hydroformed Parts allows engineers to use different methods to make them. For instance, tube hydroforming is a great option for manufacturing multiple parts from one tube. This type of component is also corrosion resistant, making it ideal for areas of vehicles that are subject to extended friction. The advantages of hydroformed components go beyond their cost-effective manufacturing costs. One of the most popular types of hydroformed components is the tubular variety. Hydroformed tubes are very durable and can last for years, meaning that they are a good option for vehicle design.