A Combined Radial Forging-Forward Extrusion Forming Process of Alternator Poles

Abstract

A combined radial forging-forward extrusion forming process of alternator poles is proposed based on an analysis of the structure of alternator poles as well as the forming die sets. First, a thick-bottom base of the alternator poles is obtained through radial forging. The middle boss and claw teeth are then formed through forward extrusion. A 3D coupled thermomechanical finite element model is employed. Billet deformation, metal flow, and forming load are obtained. The results show that the middle boss cavity is filled earlier and the process is no longer simultaneous extrusion during the second forming step. Then, the forming load increases sharply. An improved process that controls the metal flow in the middle boss cavity and aids in pushing the metal into the corners of the claw teeth cavity is proposed. The middle boss and claw teeth cavities can be filled simultaneously. The sharp increase of the forming load in the final forming stage is avoided. Simulative and experimental results show that the improved process can considerably reduce the final forming load to form a well-shaped product.