Multi-direction linkage loading forming process for steering nut

The steering nut is a complex special-shaped non-circular toothed part on the automobile, which has complex structure and shape. It needs to be deformed in multiple directions and the deformation of each part is different, so the forming is difficult. The multi-directional linkage loading forming process for steering nut is proposed, on the basis of analyzing its structural shape characteristics and forming difficulties. In the process of forming, in order to improve the filling property of the material and reduce the forming force, the loading sequence, speed and stroke of each punch are interconnected controlled according to the material flow and filling situation, so as to control the material to actively flow and fill where it is needed. The metal flow law, material filling state, stress distribution and forming force in the forming process were simulated and analyzed by finite element software. The forming force of steering nut under multi-direction linkage loading is reduced by 28% compared with that under sequential loading. The experiment of the multi-direction linkage loading forming process is conducted, the formed steering nut is full filled, the dimensions meet the requirements of the drawing, and no forging defects are found. The small batch of the steering nuts were produced by using experimental dies. The experimental results show that the process is feasible and practical.