Structure parameter optimization and bearing limit analysis of the expansion unit of three-roller tube expander

According to the performance requirements of expansion tools in bellows mechanical expansion process, this paper studies and analyzes the critical technical issues for the structure design of three-roller tube expander. It is indicated that the expansion unit structure is the main influencing factor for the performance of three-roller tube expander. The major design parameters and key parts of the expansion unit structure of 12 1/4\" three-roller tube expander was optimized by theoretical analysis and finite element numerical simulation method. The bearing limit of three-roller tube expander was also studied by numerical simulation method. Results from study show that the required expansion force increases when the taper angle of the roller outer surface gets larger, taking the axial expansion force as the quantitative indicators. It is suggested that the roller tape angle of the expansion unit should be in the range of 9-12 ° considering the proper length of the roller and the un-self-l...