What Are the Steps In The Hydroforming Process?

Hydroforming is one of the best ways to alter sheet metal while getting a very precise, clean cut, especially if stamping and shearing won’t work for your application. Read below to learn about the hydroforming process, and some benefits of a hydroforming press.

How Does a Hydroforming Press Work?

The profess of hydroforming is fairly simple. The technician takes a piece of metal and places it underneath the press. Virtually all metals capable of cold forming can be hydroformed, including aluminum, brass, carbon, stainless steel, copper, and various alloys. Once the metal is in place, computer software is used to identify exactly where the press/cut should be place. Lastly, high-pressure hydraulic fluid is pumped through a flexible bladder, or diaphragm, to shape sheet metal against a single tool. The process can create a range of simple or complex geometric shapes.

Benefits of Hydroforming

Overall, hydroforming is a relatively popular procedure in the manufacturing industry. It is far more cost-effective than other options, the burring and punching steps are omitted, and less tools are needed. Additionally, it’s very precise; faster than other cutting methods, and less wasteful from dented or accidentally bent parts. Finally, hydroforming allows metal to be transformed into long, complex welds with limited, or no, welding.

Need a Hydroforming Press? Call AMSI

If you are thinking about getting a hydroforming press for your business, contact us today to learn more about our wide variety of used machinery. Used hydroforming machines are much less expensive than newer models, but are able to complete the work just as effectively. To learn more, contact us here.