Patent ID: 7681426
Filing Date: 2010-03-23
Classification: B21C,B21J,B21K

Abstract:
1. A method of forming a one-piece axle housing with an integral spindle, the spindle having a spindle cross sectional profile, the method comprising: a) providing a tubular blank having a first end and a second end and an inner surface with a uniform first inner diameter, an outer surface with a uniform first outer diameter, D b) providing a mandrel having a first end, a second end, a main body portion between the first and second ends, and a longitudinal cross sectional profile wherein: c) increasing the wall thickness of a region of said blank, said region being located proximal to the first end of said blank; d) positioning the mandrel within the tubular blank to form a blank and mandrel combination, wherein the first end of the mandrel is positioned near the first end of the tubular blank and wherein the region of increased wall thickness of the blank is provided over section D e) passing the blank and mandrel combination through a die having a die opening, said die opening having a diameter D f) separating said mandrel from said tubular blank by drawing the mandrel through the second end of the blank; and g) forming the first end of the tube blank to provide said spindle cross sectional profile.