Forming of thermoplastic polymer and magnesium alloy-based fiber metal laminates at elevated temperatures

Abstract

Abstract. This paper illustrates the thermoforming process carried out on thermoplastic polymer and magnesium-based fiber metal laminates (FMLs). Flat laminates were formed at elevated temperatures into a hat-shape part. The forming force was acquired and, after forming, the thickness of each constituent of the FMLs in different zones was measured. A non-uniform thickness distribution was found in the formed parts, with a significant reduction of the prepreg thickness at the part bottom radii. Moreover, it was observed that the higher the blank-holder force the higher the forming force and the more significant the prepreg thickness variation.