Optimization of process parameters for hydromechancal deep drawing of square conical parts based on Taguchi and ANOVA methods

Abstract

In this study, the effects of process parameters on the forming height of square conical parts in hydromechanical deep drawing were investigated using the Taguchi experimental design combined with analysis of variance (ANOVA). SUS 304 stainless steel was selected as the blank material, and experiments were carried out on a hydromechanical deep drawing system equipped with square conical punch and die sets. Three main process parameters were considered, including the relative blank thickness (s/D), blank holding force (q_BHF), and initial forming fluid pressure (P₀). A Taguchi L9 orthogonal array was employed to evaluate the influence of these parameters on the product height based on the “larger-the-better” quality characteristic. The results indicate that the blank holding force has the most significant effect on the forming height, followed by the initial fluid pressure and the relative blank thickness. The optimal combination of process parameters was determined as s/D = 0.0067, q_BHF = 6 MPa, and P₀ = 25 MPa. The confirmation experiment under the optimal condition achieved a forming height of 45 mm, with a deviation of 2.97% from the predicted value, demonstrating good agreement between prediction and experiment. The findings of this study provide useful guidance for process parameter optimization in the hydromechanical deep drawing of square conical components