Advanced Materials in Sheet Metal Forming

Abstract

In this paper, some recent developments in materials applied in sheet metal forming processes will be overviewed mainly from the viewpoint of automotive industry as one of the most important application fields. If we consider the main requirements in the automotive industry we can state that there are very contradictory demands on developments. Better performance with lower consumption and lower harmful emission, more safety and comfort are hardly available simultaneously with conventional materials and conventional manufacturing processes. These requirements are the main driving forces behind the material and technological developments in sheet metal forming: application of high strength steels, low weight light alloys and the appropriate non-conventional forming processes are the main target fields of developments summarized in this paper.