Experimental characterization of forming behavior of 3rd GEN AHSS

Abstract Third generation of Advanced High Strength Steels (3rd GEN AHSS) for cold stamping combine superior formability and ductility at higher strengths. Their combination with the Laser Welded Blanks (LWB) technology is one answer to improve safety and weight reduction of vehicules for automakers. In this study, a Nakazima test is used to evaluate the forming behavior of LWB based 3rd GEN AHSS and to estimate their Forming Limit. Tests equipped with a Digital Image Correlation (DIC) system are carried out for several materials combinations in order to understand the influence of the weld on LWB formability. The experimental results are used to determine the critical area during this forming test and a dedicated FLC for each material combination. The location of the onset of failure is investigated, from optical observations, DIC data as well as modeling. It appears that different failure locations are obtained depending on both AHSS combination and strain paths. In order to improve the accuracy of the determination of the onset of the failure, a method is proposed to evaluate the failure risk in base metal and in the vicinity of the weld. The improvement of failure prediction will be very helpful to analyze part formability and provide design recommendations.