Advanced polymers offer at the present time concrete possibilities in reducing the product development time and production of prototypes and small series of sheet metal parts. However, the applicability of such materials requires different approaches in comparison to conventional materials for sheet metal forming dies. This paper presents investigation results dealing with tribological and tool design aspects for the use of polymeric materials in sheet metal forming. Friction and wear of sheets with different surface topologies have been investigated. A new test method for measuring polymer/sheet wear is presented. A coupled simulation model for the production of a test geometry aimed specifically at the investigation of die deformations and loads is presented. The behaviour of two polymeric materials by forming the test geometry has been simulated and the maximal loads and deformations during the process have been quantified. Simulation results have been subsequently validated in experimental testing.
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