A Comparative Study on the Production of a Hat Profile by Roll Forming and Stamping

Abstract

Lightweight design using high‐strength aluminum alloys has gained importance due to the continuing need for weight reduction and increasing crash safety requirements in the automotive industry. There are various manufacturing processes available for processing high‐strength aluminum alloys. Herein, the production of high‐strength aluminum parts by roll forming and stamping based on the example of an AA7075‐T6 hat profile is compared. Roll forming represents a continuous manufacturing process, while stamping is a discontinuous process. Different process routes (T6, W‐Temper and O) for roll forming as well as for stamping (T6, W‐Temper, O and hot forming) are in focus of the investigation. Fundamental differences of the forming processes and the tempering condition are observed and criteria for the choice of the manufacturing process and process route are presented. The temperature‐supported process routes improve the poor cold formability of AA7075 alloy and thus enhance the process window. Potential is offered for both manufacturing processes by applying tailored properties achieved through targeted quenching.