Experimental Investigations on the Optimum Driver Configuration for Electromagnetic Sheet Metal Forming

Abstract

Electromagnetic forming is a high speed forming process especially suitable for materials with high electrical conductivity such as copper or aluminum. In case of materials with comparatively low electrical conductivity (e.g. stainless steel or titanium) the use of so-called driver sheets is a common approach. Various publications proved that this way materials with low electrical conductivity and even non-conductive materials can be formed. Although the use of driver sheets is common practice, there are no or only contradicting recommendations regarding the optimum driver sheet configuration. Based on experimental investigations of the electromagnetic sheet metal forming process, this paper investigates the optimum material and thickness of the driver sheet. The results prove that aluminum should be favored over copper as driver material. The optimum driver thickness was found to be dependent on thickness and electrical conductivity of the workpiece. Even in case of a workpiece made of aluminum the use of a driver sheet could enhance the efficiency of the process.