Approaches for Preventing Tool Wear in Sheet Metal Forming Processes

Sheet metal forming processes, the purpose of which is to give the shaped material appropriate mechanical, dimensional and shape properties, are characterised by different values of unit pressures and lubrication conditions. Increasing the efficiency of tool work by increasing their durability, efficiency and reliability is still one of the main indicators of increasing production efficiency. Tool wear in metal forming technologies significantly differs from the character of wear in other methods of metalworking, such as machining. This article presents the characteristics of tool wear mechanisms used in sheet metal forming. Possibilities of increasing the durability of tools by applying coatings produced by laser techniques, chemical vapour deposition and chemical vapour deposition are also discussed. Great emphasis is placed on self-lubricating and functional materials and coatings. Current trends in lubricants and lubrication methods in sheet forming, including tool texturing, are also presented.