Alternative flat coil design for electromagnetic forming using FEM

Abstract

Electromagnetic forming (EMF) is a high velocity forming process that uses impulse magnetic force. Coil is an important component of EMF system which needs to be designed depending on application. Flat spiral coils are generally used for electromagnetic forming of sheet metals. However, with this type of coil the central portion of the workpiece experiences marginal magnetic force. This leads to in-sufficient deformation at this portion and other problems like air entrapment. In this study, a conceptual design of flat coil was proposed for better distribution of magnetic forces over the workpiece. Comparative analysis of distribution of magnetic force, magnetic field and current density using the proposed and the existing coil designs were carried out using FEM. The result indicates that the proposed coil design produces comparatively better magnetic force distribution over the workpiece. Calculation of self-inductance of such coils was also carried out and was compared with FE simulation.