Analytical Methodology for the Process and Joint Design of Form-Fit Joining by Die-Less Hydroforming

In modern lightweight concepts, for example in automotive engineering, structures are increasingly composed of several dissimilar materials. Due to the different material properties of the joining partners, conventional and widely used joining techniques often reach their technological limits when applied in the manufacturing of such multi-material structures. This leads to an increasing demand for appropriate joining technologies, like joining by die-less hydroforming (DHF) for connecting tubular workpieces. The present work introduces an analytical model to determine the achievable joint strength of this connection type. This approach, taking into account the material parameters as well as the groove and tube geometry, is based on a membrane analysis with constant wall thickness. Additionally, bending stresses and friction are considered locally. Besides a fundamental understanding of the load transfer mechanism, this analytic approach allows a reliable joining zone design. To validate the model, experimental investigations using aluminum specimens were performed.