Improved microstructure and mechanical properties of sheet metals in ultrasonic vibration enhanced biaxial stretch forming

Ultrasonic energy is used for applying severe plastic deformation on metal surfaces. In the present work, the effect of ultrasonic vibration on the formability, microhardness and microstructural properties of St14 steel sheet has been investigated. To be precise, a semi-hemispherical-head forming tool had shaped the specimens until the necking started to happen. Conventional as well as the ultrasonic-assisted biaxial stretch forming test has...