Sheet metal formability studies at the national institute of standards and technology

Sheet-metal forming is a multi-billion-dollar industry in the United States, with an overwhelming portion of its use in automotive markets as formed-sheet components. With roughly one-third of the weight of an auto in this form, the Big Three automakers (Ford, General Motors, and Daimler-Chrysler) are looking for lighter, yet high-strength alternative sheet materials. Such materials would reduce the overall weight of vehicles, helping the automakers achieve gas mileage goals set down in the Partnership for a New Generation of Vehicles. Progress has been slow, however, because of a lack of knowledge and experience in forming these new materials. The National Institute of Standards and Technology, in keeping with its mission to assist industry by developing technology and standard test methods, has initiated a program to help the auto industry, as well as other industries that produce and utilize sheet metal, make the transition to these new materials.