Finite element simulation of the complete sheet metal blanking cycle: Effect of blanking clearance on force curve and cut edge quality.

Sheet metal blanking process is a manufacturing process that is widely used in sheet metal forming and particularly in the electronics and automotive industries. The outcome and quality of the blanked parts are affected by various parameters such as the blanking clearance, the sheet metal mechanical properties and the wear of tools. However, experimental campaigns to assess the effects of these parameters on the process outcome can be prohibitively expensive for the industry.