Influence of tool elasticity on process forces and joint properties during clinching with rotational tool movement

Clinching as a joining method for sheet metal components offers various advantages. Therefore, the process optimization using finite element simulations is continuously increasing. For translational clinching, the use of rigid tools results in a good prediction of process forces and joint properties. In case of roller clinching, the lateral forces acting on the punch lead to significant elastic tool deformation during the process. This paper focuses on the effects of the tool elasticity on the joining forces, the tool deformation and the joint formation during roller clinching. The results are obtained using the finite element tool Abaqus. To evaluate whether higher simulation costs in form of elastic tools are necessary, the obtained clinchpoints are compared to experimental data.