A new method to determine electromagnetic forming limits curves (EM-FLCs) for sheet metals is proposed. The different strain paths (between uniaxial and biaxial tension) are achieved by specific tool coil and specimen designs. It is ensured that the apex of the specimen deforms on a constant strain path, and excess bending at the apex is avoided. This is done so that the determined EM-FLCs are comparable to their quasi-static counterparts. The method determines the EM-FLCs for the aluminum alloys AA-1050a-H24 and EN AW-5083-H111 and the magnesium alloy Mg AZ31-O. Overall, it is observed that the necking limits in electromagnetic forming (EMF) are higher compared to quasi-static forming. The fracture surfaces of electromagnetically deformed specimens are examined to reveal the existence of out-of-plane shear stresses. A numerical analysis corroborates this observation and their variation with strain rate. The presence of such stresses is proposed as a possible reason for the increased necking limits in EMF. As reasons for higher forming limits, previous research has identified inertial stabilization, strain rate hardening, die impact, and change in deformation mechanism. The current study reaffirms the positive effect of inertial stabilization and makes key observations in the increase of twinning in EMF of Mg AZ31-O.
Keywords: electromagnetic forming; formability; forming limit diagram; impulse forming.