Use of a supersonic fluidic oscillator to generate pressure pulses in a single chamber superplastic forming process

The superplastic metal blow forming process involves using air pressure to force a metal sheet at very high temperatures into the shape of a die for the purpose of manufacturing a component part. It has been shown that by subjecting the forming pressure to small pulsations within a range of amplitude and frequency, results in the creation of a superior part in less time. Symmetrical supersonic fluidic oscillators are capable of reliably producing these pressure pulsations at the very high temperatures experienced in the process while conventional fluid valves fail. These devices, however, require the simultaneous production of two identical parts which restricts the application of the technique to smaller part sizes. This project involves the design, construction, and performance evaluation of a particular non-symmetrical supersonic fluidic oscillator capable of producing single parts. This allows a wider range of application for the method and hence a larger market for the industrial partner.

Faculty Supervisor:

Gary Rankin

Student:

Partner:

AEM Power Systems Inc

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Windsor

Program: