Molding traditionally requires a punch, a matrix and a blankholder. The punch gradually pushes and deforms the sheet metal until it takes the form of the matrix. With hydroforming process we have always a matrix, but the punch is replaced by a fluid which “swells” the sheet metal; until it leans on the matrix.
The hydroforming process offers several advantages, such as the cost of equipment, the quality of surface, the time required and the flexibility; moreover the production lots can be very small, and it’s possible to manage short set-up times and different material thickness.