Analysis of Stretch Forming Process — Simulation and Experiment

Summary In the present work a computer aided calculation for determine the forming depth, punch load and strain distribution during punch stretching is proposed. The results predicted by the program were compared and agree well with experimental results. Stretch forming of steel and aluminium blanks using hemispherical and rectangular punches was analysed. The influence of sheet thickness, variations in mechanical properties, friction conditions and die geometry were investigated. The formability of low-carbon steels, high-strength steels and Aluminium alloys are discussed and a new criteria to predict the stretchability of sheet metal is pointed out.