1. 3.3 Electrically-Assisted Forming Introduction
Application of electric current during a forming
operation to achieve:
1) A reduction in the flow stress
(lower mechanical forces required during forming)
2) A reduction in springback during forming
(better predictability of the final geometry)
3) Increased deformation levels prior to fracture
(increased part complexity)
UNH - 28 October 2016
Sheet Metal Forming

2. 3.3 Electrically-Assisted Forming Timeline
Taken from Electrically Assisted Forming, Modelling and Control
by Salandro, W., Jones, J., Bunget, C., Mears, L., Roth, J. , Springer 2015
UNH - 28 October 2016
Sheet Metal Forming

3. 3.3 Electrically-Assisted Forming Literature Examples
Stainless Steel
Taken from US patent 2015/
Kim, et. al.
CP Ti
Magargee, Morestin and Cao,
J. Eng. Mater. Technol 135(4), (Jun 18, 2013)
UNH - 28 October 2016
Sheet Metal Forming

4. 3.3 Electrically-Assisted Forming Where are we now?
Initial debates
Was this just another form of hot working
I2R heating used to raise the temp of the workpiece
Current data suggests- under the right conditions
Actually influences the deformation process
Theoretical understanding still under debate
Limited patent activity-still room for basic coverage
How do we harness the effect commercially?
UNH - 28 October 2016
Sheet Metal Forming

5. 3.3 Electrically-Assisted Forming Future Work
Current application/ control
DC, AC, Pulsed current
Quantify the effect
By alloy
By forming technology
Bending, Roll bonding,
Single point forming,
Drawing, etc.
Scale up
Taken from Electrically Assisted Forming, Modelling and Control
by Salandro, W., Jones, J., Bunget, C., Mears, L., Roth, J. , Springer 2015
UNH - 28 October 2016
Sheet Metal Forming

6. 3.3 Electrically-Assisted Forming Discussion
Timing: priority, resources available when needed?
Obstacles: technical & business?
Resources: level, type & issues?
Anything missing for active industry support?
Estimated benefits realistic & complete?
Technical and non-technical obstacles complete or over reaching?
Alternative implementation paths or better approaches?
Conflicts with intellectual property or trade secrets?
UNH - 28 October 2016
Sheet Metal Forming