On the Energy Absorption Capability of Metallic Tubes Subjected to the Radial Wall Crushing Process

Abstract

Metallic tubes, under axial loading, are frequently preferred in many different industries due to their high energy absorption efficiency. The studies to increase the energy absorption capacity (EAC) of these structures are still up to date. In this study, the deformation behavior and EAC of regionally pre-deformed identical aluminum and steel tubes under axial loading were investigated experimentally. Regional strength increase in tubes was obtained by the radial wall crushing (RWC) process. The RWC process is carried out by radially crushing the desired areas of the metallic tube from the outside with the aid of a specially designed device. Strengthening (hardening) occurs in the pre-deformed regions and as a result, the EAC of the metallic tubes can be increased. It is also noteworthy that the increase in absorbed energy is provided without reinforcement materials. When the experimental results were examined, it was seen that the RWC increased the energy absorption value of aluminum and steel tubes approximately 23% and by 33%, respectively. In addition to energy increases, the folding beginning of the metallic tubes can also be directed by using the RWC process.