An analytical model for bending and springback of bimetallic sheets

Springback is an inevitable phenomenon due to elastic redistribution of internal stresses occurring in sheet metal forming operations. Most of the research reported in this area has been concerned with the components formed from single metal. This article deals with the analytical solution for prediction of springback in bending of bimetallic sheets. A mathematical model is derived based on Woo and Marshall's constitutive equation, considering logarithmic strain (nonlinear) distribution across the thickness and thickness change during bending. Analytical modeling, based on logarithmic strain distribution across the thickness, can be used for accurate springback predictions in the case of smaller bend radius to the thickness ratio. The results of the springback and thickness change are validated using experimental results for the aluminum sheet layered with steel. Further, springback variation in bimetallic sheets is studied, with a change in material properties and thickness of each layer.