THE paper deals particularly with those phases of aircraft production concerned with sheet metal forming, namely, basic analyses of sheet metal forming operations, classification of parts into basically similar groups, forming techniques, and limits to which the commonest materials may be successfully formed. Emphasis is placed upon the need for quantitative knowledge of the forming limits for die and aircraft design.
All of the common types of forming equipment, with their applications and limitations, are discussed. Methods capable of high rates of production, such as the rubber pressure hydro-press and the double-acting press, are discussed in more detail. Forming limits are presented and techniques are discussed for flanging, stretching, drawing, and redrawing.