Finite Element Simulation of Production Process of Bimetallic Pipes by Screw Rolling
Abstract
This study conducts a preliminary FE simulation of screw piercing and screw rolling processes for producing bimetallic pipes with variable inner and outer positioning and thickness of the corrosion-resistant steel CL (13Cr and 18Cr10Ni grades) as a rational first step before experimental testing. The results demonstrate that a favorable stress–strain state is formed in both processes under the selected deformation parameters (there are no high tensile stresses in the area of high strains and low temperatures). Shape change analysis confirmed that the pipe geometric dimensions according to simulation are sufficiently close to the target values, with only minor deviations in wall thickness and ovality. The change in CL thickness during piercing ranges from 34% to 51% and increases with the elongation ratio. In the rolling process, it reaches approximately 55–56%. The CL position, its thickness and the material choice significantly influence the deformation heating intensity within the bonding of base and clad materials, as well as the magnitude of the forces acting on the tool in contact with the CL. The obtained results can serve as a methodology that lays the groundwork for experimental verification and the further technology implementation, while minimizing risks and costs.