The ability to predict a successful deep-drawing operation is important when designing a deep-drawing schedule. This paper presents the results of a series of cup-drawing tests carried out to study the deep drawing of commercial aluminium blanks. The critical die and punch shoulder radii, the limiting blank diameters and the limiting drawing ratios were recorded. Over the ranges of conditions investigated, the drawing process was found to be strongly sensitive to the die and punch-nose radii. Based on the experimental data obtained, the maximum punch force for aluminium cup drawing is proposed.