Effects of embossing and restoration process on the deep drawability of aluminum alloy sheets

Embossing and restoration are utilized in strengthening sheet metals. The strengthening effect is due to the increase in the section modulus of the sheet as well as on the strain hardening that is locally introduced on the sheet metal. With these techniques, sheet metal of thinner gage can be utilized in sheet metal production with improved strength and rigidity. In the present study, such techniques are applied to deep drawing of aluminum alloy sheets. Initial blanks are subjected to different patterns of emboss, restoration or combination of both. Results of the study demonstrate that by using appropriate pattern, resistance to drawing in the flange area is decreased and the strength in the punch shoulder portion is increased. These combined positive effects lead to the improvement in deep drawability of sheet metals.