LIDECO Standard Parts 07/2022

G28 subject to alterations BLANKING AND FORMING WITH FIBROFLEX ® -ELASTOMERS Description FIBROFLEX ® forming materials for blanking, embossing and forming are eminently suitable for use in small and medium series production. The main advantage is the reduction in tooling costs compared with tradi- tional productions methods. This means that, even with considerable workpiece changes or with prototypes, you can respond quickly to changing market requirements and delivery times. Pre-coated or highly polished sheets that must not be scratched or damaged during forming are becoming increasingly important. In this case, there is often no alternative to a forming process using elastomers. Forming with FIBROFLEX ® When forming using elastometers, always remember the golden rule: whatever the extent of the deformation, the elastic FIBROFLEX ® forming material remains constant. This means it can be displaced, but not compressed. The design must allow the elastomer to "flow" into a relief gap. Observing the volume consistency of the elastomer is one of the most important prerequisites for successfully solving a forming problem. Choice of machine When FIBROFLEX ® matrices are used for blanking, embossing and forming the machine must be able to accommodate the displacement. Hydraulic presses are preferred over mechanical presses due to their pressure build-up. The slowly building pressure counteracts the form-al- tering response of the FIBROFLEX ® forming material. With mechanical presses there is a risk of the press being destroyed on overload, when the upper dead point is approached. With FIBROFLEX ® the machine is not subjected to any stresses, so even old machines can be used.