Simulation and experiment researches on rubber pad forming of two-step channels by different dies

Abstract

Rubber pad forming is one of advance processing technologies. With both rubber pad and die, the sheet metal is stamped into the required shapes. The shapes of the die directly affect the final shapes of the channels on the sheet. With the developments of micro-channels, a new kind of two-step channels is concerned gradually in many fields. Since there are waved structures in these channels, many beneficial functions are caused. However, the manufacturing of this new kind channels by rubber pad forming are still not meticulously researched. This article is focused on the rubber pad forming process of different two-step channels. Different two-step channels are designed and made. Based on both FEM and physical experiments, the forming processes of these new channels are researched. The forming results are discussed and compared with each other, the best design strategy is also proposed through results.