Effects of processing, texture and temperature on the formability of AZ31 and ZE10 sheets

Sheet metal forming experiments have been carried out on AZ31 and ZE10 sheets produced by rolling conventionally DC cast slabs as well as twin roll cast (TRC) strips. Nakajima tests were performed on the various sheet materials over the temperature range from RT to 200 degrees C using Hasek type samples of specified geometries to generate various strain paths. The strain path data were used to derive the forming limit curves as plotted in forming limit diagrams for the two alloys. The temperature dependence of the sheet formability is discussed in terms of the operating deformation mechanisms and the roles of alloy composition, initial texture and processing history.