Sheet metal formability studies at the National Institute of Standards andTechnology

Sheet-metal forming is a multi-billion-dollar industry in the United Stares , with an overwhelming portion of its use in automotive markets as formed-s heet components. With roughly one-third of the weight of an auto in this fo rm, the Big Three automakers (Ford, General Motors, and Daimler-Chrysler) a re looking for lighter, yet high-strength alternative sheer materials. Such materials would reduce the overall weighs of vehicles, helping the automak ers achieve gas mileage goals set down in the Partnership for a New Generat ion of Vehicles. Progress has been slow, however, because of a lack of know ledge and experience in forming these new materials. The National Institute of Standards and Technology, in keeping with its mission to assist industr y by developing technology and standard test methods, has initiated a progr am to help the auto industry, as well as other industries that produce and utilize sheet metal, make the transition to these new materials.