Numerical simulation and experimental research on rubber flexible-die forming limitation with new position-limited backpressure mechanism

The forming limitation and the wall thickness distributions are two main parameters for estimating quality of T-shaped tubes. In this paper, effects three key factors on investigated, which punch front distance l1, reverse height h1, matching relationship between rubber hardness axial feed ?l. A new position-limited backpressure mechanism is proposed, made up rigid lever, flexible medium, spacer. simulations experiments carried out. Both results show that thinning rate decreases first then increases, thickening gradually with increase l1. branch reaches highest l1 5mm under requirements rate. With rise bigger h1 beneficial to suppress at top branch, reached when 7mm. When ?l fixed, has a significant influence defects. exorbitant causes rupture, excessive wrinkle. best distribution achieved 5mm, 7mm, 75HA, 24mm.