The performance of flat end and hemispherical end tools in single-point incremental forming

Single-point incremental forming is a novel sheet metal-forming process. It can provide an economical alternative of stamping process to produce small batches. In the current study, the effect of tool shape on the profile accuracy of U-shaped channel and sheet formability was studied. Two kinds of tools with flat end and hemispherical end were employed. It was found that the flat end tools can provide better profile accuracy and formability than the hemispherical end tools. In addition, flat end tools required relatively lower forming force compared to hemispherical end tools.