Incremental bulk metal forming

Abstract

Incremental bulk forming is the oldest known technique in metal working. Many developments in this field have dramatically changed our society. Today incremental bulk forming processes are applied to quality products in small and large series production. Numerous advances have been realized. The motivation for using these processes is presented here. After a general definition of incremental processes and a classification of incremental bulk forming in particular, some innovative product and process examples are given that show the potential. Finally recent progress and challenges are illustrated in detail. This includes the development of new machinery for incremental bulk forming, advanced methods for process planning, occurrence of failure modes and the properties of finished products.