Robust Scaling of Roller Clinching Processes

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Compared to processes using stroke movements, manufacturing processes with rotational tool movements offer many benefits, especially for processing semi-finished coil products. Roller clinching uses these positive characteristics and enables a continuous joining process while maintaining high speed.In the first two funding periods of the SPP 1640, experiments were carried out using roller clinching and hole roller clinching. The first phase focused on the basic feasibility of clinching using rotational tool movement. In the second funding period, the range of applications for roller clinching was extended. Using a prehole offers the ability to join materials, which are difficult to form, with well formable materials. Hole roller clinching makes it possible to join hybrid materials, which are important for lightweight design, with rotational tool movement. However, the studies were carried out within very narrow parameter limits, which are specified through the existing roller clinching setup. To gain a complete understanding of the process and to extend the range of use, transferring the results to different dimensions is necessary. So far, no studies extending the given process limits have been conducted. There is also a lack of studies about the robustness of the process, which is directly linked to the scaling of the process due to the special kinematics. Based on the results of previous projects, the focus will now be placed in particular on the scalability and robustness of the joining process. The objective of the project is to expand the process window regarding different application areas. Based on a comprehensive analysis of the kinematic conditions in roller clinching, the effects of scaling the process with regard to the thickness of the sheet material, the relative sizes of the tool rolls and the joining speed are studied using finite element simulations. In addition, robust and technically feasible parameter ranges are elaborated. To validate the results and assess the mechanical properties of the joint, a test stand is designed and constructed. Because of the conducted research, an extension of the application spectrum of the joining method is possible. Thus, roller clinching can be used e.g. to integrate functional electronic components directly in profile parts.