Tube branching by asymmetric compression beading

Abstract

This paper draws on the capability of producing out-of-plane instability waves in thin-walled tubes subjected to axial loading. In terms of deformation mechanics, the aim is to identify the operative parameters, to diagnose possible sources of failure and to understand the route for selecting the most appropriate operative conditions for obtaining sound asymmetric compression beads created by out-of-plane instability waves.In terms of industrial technology, the goal is to apply the fundamentals of asymmetric compression beading for developing an innovative tube branching process to join tubes that is capable of eliminating welding and brazing in standard or user made types of connections.The presentation includes details on tool design, independent determination of the mechanical properties of the tubes, finite element modelling and experimentation under laboratory conditions. Results and observations show that tube branching by means of asymmetric compression beading is a flexible and cost-effective technology for joining tubes in standard tee connections as well as in special purpose applications involving custom sizes and dissimilar materials.