Sheet metal forming: A review

Developments in the numerical modeling of stamping processes and experimental measurements now make it possible to design stamping processes using sound engineering principles. This article shows how experimental and theoretical contributions have led to the concept of a forming window in strain space that identifies the strains that can be developed safely in a sheet element. It is bounded by failure limits corresponding to localized necking, shear fracture, and wrinkling; A robust stamping process is one in which the strains in the part lie well within the forming window. The nature of the window and the influence of material behavior on its shape can be predicted.