| 摘要 |
<p>An apparatus (10) for superplastic forming of metallic workpieces (12) and, more particularly, aluminum workpieces is disclosed. The apparatus includes a mechanism for ejecting the workpiece from the die (14) upon completion of the superplastic forming process. A steel liner (24) covers the surface (22) of the die cavity (20), and the workpiece is formed against the liner (which acts as a die surface). The steel liner has high temperature resistance at superplastic forming temperatures providing it with sufficient rigidity to enable it to be removed from the cavity at or near superplastic forming temperatures while still retaining its shape and that of the formed workpiece which it supports. In one embodiment, a cam operated ejection mechanism (128, 132) pushes the liner from the die cavity surface as desired at the end of the superplastic forming process. In another embodiment, the die is provided with apertures through which pressurized gas is directed toward the liner pushing the liner away from the die cavity surface.</p> |
