Cryogenic Deep Drawing Tool Design for Reduced Heat Transfer

Abstract Subject of this study is the usage of macro-structured tools for deep drawing of aluminum alloys at cryogenic temperatures in order to increase the drawing depth. The advantage of the macro-structure is the reduced contact area, which primarily leads to a reduction in frictional forces in the flange area and also minimizes the heat transfer from the tool to the cooled sheet metal. In addition to the geometry of the tools, the heat transfer is also influenced by the thermal properties of the tool materials. Therefore, the tool must be designed to reduce heat flux and thermal diffusivity. In this regard, substitute materials for the tools, specifically polymer, and steel-shielded polymer, were investigated. In this context, the heat transfer coefficients between the tool material and the aluminum blank are determined experimentally. The influence of thermal conditions on the cryogenic deep drawing process are investigated numerically and experimentally. The result of the study is an improved process understanding to ensure the blank temperature in a cryogenic range and increase the resistance against bottom cracks.