EMERGING INTERNATIONAL TECHNIQUES IN PRECISION METAL FORMING

摘要

This paper summarises the findings of a recent study into emerging precision metal forming techniques. The most significant technology to improve the competitiveness and productivity of the sector as a whole will be computer simulation of metal forming processes, which will ultimately extend to the prediction of final microstructures and component properties. The goal is to develop manufacturing processes that in the year 2020 will be flexible, robust and environmentally benign, enabling high productivity but economical small batch production. Powerful technical, legislative and commercial forces, global in nature, are operating that are difficult to predict. Nevertheless, the industry must develop its 'vision' for the future and draw out its 'roadmap' for achieving that vision. New and improved precision metal forming techniques must always address the goal of cost reduction.