Abstract
This paper deals with development of brackets by using aluminum alloy sheets which is indispensable for weight reduction of autobody. The press formability of aluminum alloy sheet is estimated by means of tensile test, V bending test, sample manufacturing test and photograph of microstructure. The results show that the elongation, strength, work hardening exponent, plastic anisotropy coefficient of Al 6***series are better than those of Al 5***series, but for general press formability, Al 5***series are better than Al 6***series due to lower yield strength. Since most of mechanical properties of aluminum sheet are generally inferior to those of cold-rolled steel sheet, shape fixability and press formability of aluminum sheet are very poor. For making components of autobody by use of die for steel sheet application, it is essential that die should be nodified for least bending and stretching. With the modified die for aluminum, it could be possible to make brackets, the component of autobody. Microstructure of Al 5***series has fine grain and small the 2nd phase and that of Al 6***series has relatively coarse grain. Therefore, it seems that fine grain and small the 2nd phase of Al 5***series is one of the factor of lower yield strength, resistance to stamping work, formation of Luder's line.
