The application of advanced high-strength steels with ultimate tensile strengths of approximately 800 MPa is now well established within the automotive stamping industry. Current trends point to growth in higher strength applications with tensile strengths exceeding 1200 MPa.
Due to their higher strength and greater springback after forming, producing high-strength steel stampings and their tools requires special attention. Effective processing methods are required that address problems specific to these materials, including: selection of an optimum stamping process and related equipment, solving formability problems, controlling springback, and selecting appropriate die steels and coatings for optimal tool life.
As automakers strive to meet 2025 CAFÉ requirements of 54.5 miles per gallon, the demand for higher strength steel stampings will increase among lower tier automotive suppliers. These companies tend to be contract manufacturers and tool & die shops that are well established and experienced with mild steel and high strength low alloy materials. However, most are not prepared for the challenges posed by advanced high-strength materials without an appropriate transfer of recently developed engineering practices and manufacturing know-how.
The purpose of this paper is to facilitate the transfer of recent engineering and manufacturing technology to contract manufacturers and tool & die companies supplying, or likely to supply, high-strength steel stampings and their tools.