Applying new blow-forming processes to obtain new structural components for automotiva industry: A-pillar

Abstract

The aim of this project is to determine the technical viability of the bodywork manufacturing process using the blow-forming technology. Specifically, the blow-forming technology has been studied to be applied to manufacture the A-pillar. The results of using this technology reveal the following: - Weight and CO2 reduction due to the fact that this technology makes it possible to use thinner high strength steel. - Passengers‘ safety improvement. - Improvement of the driver‘s sight angle as a result of the smaller section of the A-pillar. - Reduction of manufacturing costs. - Reduction of the number of components of the A-pillar. During the development stage, the following results are also achieved: - Harden material above 1.500 MPa. - Up to 20% of A-pillar weight reduction. - Utilization of material by 95% vs 40% of current use. - Component number reduction. Results suggest that the application of the blow-forming technology to manufacture the A-pillar is technically viable and complies with the geometric and manufacturing requirements