Lightweight materials such as aluminum alloys have an important role to play in weight reduction. However, their limited formability at room temperature poses a major challenge and restricts their use. Significant improvements in formability can be achieved by heat-assisted forming processes. However, this improvement in formability is generally associated with a change in microstructure that leads to a reduction in strength. Alternatively, improved ductility and formability can be achieved at cryogenic temperatures without the disadvantages of warm forming processes. In this project, the focus is on developing a new process for forming aluminum alloys at cryogenic temperatures without active cooling. For this purpose, macro-structured tools are used to reduce the contact area between the tool and the blank. The aim is to minimize the heat flux to the blank to maintain low temperatures during forming. This is to take advantage of the improved formability of aluminum alloys at cryogenic temperatures and thus extend the process window for deep drawing of aluminum alloys.

This project is open access and publicly accessible.

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