Effect of punch geometry on hole expansion ratio

Stretch-flangeability of sheet metal is normally quantified by hole expansion ratio. Researchers have determined hole expansion ratio with various punch geometries such as conical, flat-bottom and hemispherical, and reported different hole expansion ratio values for identical test condition. Finite element investigation confirms that alteration of deformation path with punch geometries consequence different hole expansion ratio values. Necking and failure take place slightly away from the central hole edge for flat-bottom and hemispherical punches, while at the central hole edge for conical punch. Approximately plane strain tensile deformation prevails at the failure location for flat-bottom and hemispherical punches, while pure uniaxial tensile deformation prevails for conical punch.