In this paper, the tube forming by radial-forward extrusion is analyzed by numerical simulation and experiments. The paper discusses the effects of process variables such as gap height, relative gap width and die corner radius on tube forming. The influence of deformation patterns of flange in radial extrusion on forward extrusion for tube forming is investigated and summarized in terms of the maximum forming force and hardness variations along the extrusion path. Furthermore the external defects are shown experimentally during the forming operation. Based on finite element analysis in conjunction with experimental test in Al alloy, analysis is performed for important parameter combination in order to reduce forming defects. Eventually, the process parameters for safe forming are suggested in order to reduce the forming defects.