Analytical and Experimental Investigation of Product Geometry and Dimensional Accuracy in the Punching Process of AA 1050 and AA 1070 Sheets

Abstract

Punching is a widely used and economical manufacturing method. The forces that occurred during punching and the dimensional accuracies of the parts obtained from punching are significant in manufacturing processes. This study aimed to examine the cutting forces that occur in the punching process and the dimensional accuracy of the parts. AA 1050 and AA 1070 sheet materials were used in the experimental studies. Five punches with various cutting-edge geometries were employed in the punching processes. Punching operations were carried out at a constant clearance value and press speed. The geometries of the specimens obtained from the experimental studies were examined using stereo and shuttle-pix microscopes. In addition, the finite element method was used to study punching processes. The consistency of the finite element model was analyzed by comparing experimental and numerical studies. When the flat punch geometry was used, the cutting force was at its greatest. Using the largest angled punch geometry resulted in the lowest cutting force. It has been determined that the dimensional accuracy of the blank and the falling part is better when using the flat punch geometry compared to the other punches used. In addition, it was observed that experimental and theoretical studies are compatible with each other. It is thought that finite element software can provide time and cost savings in determining the cutting force of materials.