The use of computer techniques to evaluate the drawability of the thin sheet metal

The drawability evaluation of thin sheet for stamping requires assessment of tools and techniques to modern ways measure and to evaluate complexity of the advanced construction materials characteristics such as mentioned thin metal sheets. Press forming is a complex issue to assess by applying classical methods of mechanical and physical properties study, such basic and technological tests. More and more are being developed comprehensive characterizations of charges for stamping like thin sheet metals, e.g. in the range of forming limit curves or diagrams. The development of those curves is possible through the use of image analysis techniques for indexing and distorted grids use digital software such as strain analysers AutoGrid system, and an older one - Asame system. However, extensive opportunities to develop methods of drawing, starting from cutting through the bending and shaping by using rigid tools, hydroforming or explosives, require computer support through product design and production technology. In this field are used several programs for modeling and simulation of stamping processes such as finite element method (FEM). The paper presents the application of the strain analyser AutoGrid? to determine local strain distributions on drawpieces made of Inconel 625 alloy sheets. These strain distributions were compared with the simulation result of forming of the same shape drawpieces obtained with the use of software eta/Dynaform 5.8. Comparison of qualitative and quantitative results showed good correlation with the actual simulation results of the drawing. The use of computer techniques in both cases facilitates the development of drawability properties characteristics and allows you to design and predict the results of stamping without most expensive production trials used to start the process of producing new stampings.