Hollow Drive Shafts - Innovation by Forming Technology

Within the scope of the entire car industry, lightweight construction plays an increasingly dominating role in fulfilling requirements from a technological, environmental and economic point of view. This direction is mainly focussed on components that can be produced at optimal weight. The manufacturers seek new, more efficient techniques to manufacture shaft-like components with less effort than before. A great potential for innovation in near net shape manufacturing of car components, especially in the range of bulk metal forming, is available. Here, partial forming techniques and combinations of manufacturing techniques with rotating main movement could provide an efficient solution.

The paper is based on analyzing the worldwide demand for gear shafts required by the car industry. Possible development trends are described. Research projects offering new possibilities for the manufacture of hollow shafts are introduced.