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

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. An increase of regional strength in tubes was obtained by the radial wall crushing (RWC) process. The RWC process is carried out radially by crushing desired regions of metallic tubes from the outside using 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. It was seen from the experimental results that the energy absorption value of aluminum and steel tubes were increased by approximately 23% and 33%, respectively by the RWC process. In addition to energy increases, the folding beginning of the metallic tubes can also be directed by using the RWC process.

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