Sheet Metal Forming of Titanium Blanks Using Flexible Media

Abstract Sheet metal forming processes using flexible media are increasingly utilized in the industrial practice due to the relatively low tooling cost. In the present investigation, a rubber forming process is applied to the manufacturing cycle of a titanium alloy component for acoustic tweeters. The proposed process allows a reduction in manufacturing costs and production time since it permits the elimination of some joining operations. The FEM analysis has permitted the definition of the optimal process parameters and tooling geometry. Accordingly, several components have been produced; the achieved quality level is comparable with the one obtained utilizing the conventional technology and consistent with the FEM predictions.