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An evolutionary state variable model is used to predict failure in sheet forming. The development of damage in aluminum sheet is characterized using Bammann's plasticity model. Simulations are carried out with the commercial code LS-Dyna3D. Using the limiting dome height test as an example, the prediction of failure in straining states of draw, plane strain, and stretch is made for AA 6111-T4 sheet. The location of failure and associated major/minor strains are contrasted with experimental forming limit curves. As a further example, the drawing of a square cup from a 5000 series alloy blank is simulated and compared with experimental data. The simulations accurately predict the location of failure and show limit strains which compare favorably with experiment. The damage variable provides a method for predicting the location and time of failure in a framework that accommodates general straining paths.

A new electrode holder designed for resistance spot welding of aluminum twists the electrode while it contacts the workpiece. The limited rotation grinds the electrode tip into the surface of the workpiece, abrading it and obtaining good electrical contact. The improved electrical contact results in less heat generation at the tip/workpiece interface, which leads to longer tip life and more consistent welds. Test results show that tip life increases nearly 500 percent when using a twisting electrode holder. In addition, weld quality is improved and more consistent welds are produced than with standard spot welding practice. By using these new electrode holders, automobile manufacturers will decrease the downtime associated with replacing electrode tips and reduce the number of assemblies that have to be torn apart for quality control inspection.

The aluminum alloy 2036 is presently being used in the production of automotive body panels. In the study presented, specimens of 2036-T4 with varying crystallographic textures were subjected to tensile testing and limiting dome height (LDH) evaluations in an effort to gauge the effect of texture on formability and stamping performance. To describe the texture, relative magnitudes of ideal texture components were derived from the orientation distribution function. Finite element analysis was used to study the effect of anisotropic properties due to texture on thinning in the LDH test. The impact of textural character on formability is discussed.

The Reynolds’ 390 engine technology eliminates the need for iron bore liners in aluminum engines. This allows casting of the cylinder block and bores as an integral unit. The technology is a three-part system consisting of the hypereutectic 390 aluminum-silicon alloy, compatible pistons and a special cylinder bore finish. When properly applied, it can produce a lightweight, strong, compact and relatively low-cost aluminum engine block.

A discussion of the impact of a 2.5 mph bumper standard on aluminum sheet and extruded bumpers is presented. Information is presented on energy management systems, bumper shape, and dentability. This information can be used to determine whether a sheet or extruded bumper is the most efficient for a particular application.

The history of the development of sheet aluminum wheels, including alloy selection, properties, and tests are discussed. A number of alloys were considered for wheel application. The strain hardening characteristics, the excellent corrosion resistance and other property criteria led to the selection of 5454 as the sheet aluminum wheel alloy

High integrity aluminum castings are potential replacements for cast iron in current vehicle weight reduction programs. Domestically, several cast aluminum structural-type components are already realities, saving weight and contributing to improved fuel economy; wheels, brake drums, master brake cylinders and power steering housings. In Europe, suspension components, wheel hubs and disc brake calipers are cast in aluminum for some car models, indicating the functional and economic feasibility of such parts. Alloy and process technology already exist to enable production of realiable, high strength aluminum castings. Domestic automotive product engineers are urged to carefully consider and thoroughly test such aluminum castings along with the many other weight reduction possibilities currently being investigated.

Aluminum castings have much to offer the automotive industry in terms of weight reduction and energy savings. Their long-term acceptability can only be assured, however, by applying the most cost-effective combinations of material and processing. This paper will point out some “cost-saving” opportunities in two basic areas: (1) The use of hypereutectic aluminum-silicon alloys to eliminate a need for ferrous wear-surface inserts, to reduce machining capital expenditures and to reduce overall part weight; and (2) The use of two processing methods, “Pore-Free” die casting and “low-pressure” casting, to produce aluminum parts with minimum metal usage and energy consumption.

A new type plated electrode has been developed which shows considerable promise for spot welding mill finish and mechanically cleaned aluminum sheet. This electrode consists of preconditioning the tips of regular Class I and Class II electrodes followed by an inexpensive electroplating of dull nickel. Laboratory data has shown that 2000 spots can be made on mill finished 2036 aluminum using this plated electrode. On wirebrushed 5182-0, 3750 welds were made before failure occurred. This represents a significant increase in tip life compared to tests run using regular copper electrodes. The paper gives details as to how the nickel plated electrodes were developed. This includes results from evaluating other electrode plating and capping materials. The results of tests run using the plated electrodes are included as part of the paper, as well as a discussion as to why the nickel plating works when spot welding aluminum.