Abstract: Tube axial compressive precision forming containing free deformation is an advanced precision forming process with good future that can be used for producing parts with good flexibility, high efficiency, low consumption, and high precision. However, the forming process including free mechanism is complex and difficult to be described with accurate quantitative relationships, so it is necessary to develop finite element simulation system for study of tube axial compressive precision forming process, Based on the thorough analysis of deformation mode, the rigid-plastic finite element numerical model of forming process is established and some key technology problems related to the simulation are resolved. The numerical simulation system is developed. Experimental research shows that the software system developed is reliable and practical. It provides an effective approach to further and systematical study of free deformation mechanism and law in tube axial compressive precision forming process.

Key words: Finite element method, Free deformation, Numerical simulation, Precision forming, Tube axial compressing