The effect of nanoparticle-added solid lubricant on the formability of sheet metal

In sheet metal forming processes, formation without fracture is related to sheet metal formability. Parameters such as tool geometry, blank holder force, and lubricant are changed in order to push the formability of material to its maximum capacity. Lubricants play an important role in sheet metal forming processes. Depending on the type of lubricant, the formability of the sheet metal can be increased, the surface quality of the product can be improved, and the tool life can be extended. In this study, nanoparticles were added to solid lubricants, and the effect of nanolubricants on sheet metal formability was investigated with Erichsen test. Test specimens were observed by SEM, and the nanoparticle effect was investigated by EDX mapping. In addition, the optimum nanoparticle concentration was determined, and the effects of the nanoparticle on solid lubricants were compared with other lubricants which were used in sheet metal forming. As a result of the study, it was observed that the nanoparticle additive increased the formability by 13%. Results showed that the formability of the sheet metal increased up to certain nanoparticle concentrations, but it decreased above this limit.