FormQ - Development of sustainable forming method for production of aircraft engine parts in Sweden

Purpose and goal

This project aims to develop a manufacturing method for commercially relevant aero engine components. A successful project gives direct opportunities for SMEs to take on new production. The manufacturing method includes forming through the Quintus technology. Today´s production method involves several production steps where major challenges exist around achieving the desired shape tolerances. The new manufacturing process is developed with production in mind for a demonstrator part for which eligibility requirements on minimal sheet metal thinning pose special challenges.

Expected effects and result

An innovative and highly efficient manufacturing method will be developed. Through modeling and simulation, a forming process is designed that enables direct hit manufacturing of the component. The work contributes to competence development at SMEs and investigates prerequisites for production. The project involves close collaboration between, SME, researchers and the aeroengine industry regarding the production of parts to create opportunities for development, demonstrating opportunities, dialogue regarding future production and increased sustainability

Planned approach and implementation

The project is based on simulation-driven process development. By simulation of the Quintus flex forming technology, it is possible to evaluate innovative concepts for forming where minimal material thinning occurs, which is crucial to the success of the project. Furthermore, evaluation and optimization are included in order to accurately develop tools and forming process that ensure successful results without risk of problems such as thinning, wrinkling and fracture. The project includes experimental studies such as forming tests and is divided into different activities.