The analysis of lock forming mechanism in the clinching joint

In this study, the effect of the process parameters of the clinching process on the joinability of advanced high-strength steel was investigated using finite element analysis (FEA). The effect of die geometrical parameters on the achieved joint lock size and maximum forming force has been determined. It has been determined that the die groove width is the most important parameter affecting the material flow effect and energy consumption of the joining process. From the result, the die radius, die depth, and die groove shape were mainly affected by the joinability of advanced high-strength steel H320LA. The results of experiments and numerical tests enable determining the effective process parameters of H320LA sheet metal joining process. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.