As with many technologies, development has continued in low pressure hydroforming. This new method results from improvements & advancements that allow greater part & process design flexibility (more features can be formed with less effort, good results), process stability and lower cost in a number of respects. The process sequence is adjusted to suit the required part characteristics & features.

Features or advancements that distinguish HDF from other hydroforming processes are:

1. Parts can be expanded:
   1. At the ends (50%) as is common with other processes, but with more options
   2. 30-40% (perhaps more) at center of long parts; previously unavailable
2. Numerous strategies to expand local part cross-sections
3. Wall thickness can be more even and controlled in expanded areas by several techniques to put material where it is most beneficial
4. More opportunities to reduce weight & increase rigidity.
5. Controlled material forming during the whole cycle
6. More accurate tube location, process, dimensional control
7. A refined approach to apply the right pressure at different points in the cycle coordinated with die movement to increase the number of part feature options & decrease cost factors
8. Fewer die & part design considerations
9. Greatly reduced rupture risk by avoiding or reducing corner wall thinning when expanding
10. More processing options
11. Improved process stability
12. Lower cost - material, equipment, processing steps, shorter cycle time
13. More options to eliminate or minimize end scrap
14. Extensive combination of mechanical and fluid forming process elements
15. Simplified processing equipment and process reduces capital & piece cost.
    

It is common with conventional parts to have a continuously varying cross sectional periphery along its length. Some expanded sections provide a significant structural benefit and others do not. Distinguishing between these and choosing to design a constant periphery part, except where expansion gives a substantial benefit is a way to expand cost effectively. These are usually formed differently than the normal HPH method.