A comparative study on the GLARE stamp forming behavior using cured and non-cured preparation followed by hot-pressing

• Published in: International journal of advanced manufacturing technology 2021-07, Vol.115 (5-6), p.1461-1473
• Main Authors: Blala, Hamza, Lang, Lihui, Khan, Shahrukh, Li, Lei
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Advanced manufacturing technologies; Alloys; Aluminum alloys; CAE) and Design; Comparative studies; Computer-Aided Engineering (CAD; Damage tolerance; Deformation; Drawability; Elongation; Engineering; Failure modes; Fiber-metal laminates; Industrial and Production Engineering; Laminates; Manufacturing; Mass production; Mechanical Engineering; Mechanical properties; Media Management; Original Article; Pressing; Reliability engineering; Scientific papers; Stamp forming; Structural integrity; Structural reliability; Weight reduction
• ISSN: 0268-3768; 1433-3015
• DOI: 10.1007/s00170-021-07196-y

Demand for lightweight materials with structural integrity is necessary due to the increased global concern about air pollution and excessive fuel consumption. Fiber metal laminates (FMLs) have the potential to find the perfect balance between weight reduction and structural reliability, which includes improved damage tolerance. However, the fiber used in FMLs has limited elongation, and existing forming approaches are not qualified enough to produce small and deep laminate components, especially for mass production. In this research paper, an investigation has been carried out to understand the laminate system’s failure mode, eliminate defects, and improve drawability. A comparative study has been carried out for producing small parts made of GLARE (glass laminated-reinforced epoxy) material, using the conventional cured laminate and non-cured laminate with a hot-pressing method. The effect of these two methods on the GLARE forming behavior has been discussed. The numerical and experimental results of the new approach were compared with the conventional method. Results exhibit the positive effect of this approach on the quality of the formed cups and depth. Finally, this investigation can enhance the FMLs, and GLARE part applications compared to the conventional methods.