Numerical analysis of the robustness of self-pierce riveting with pre-formed joining partners

Modern industrial development has necessitated a wide range of joining technologies. Self-pierce riveting has become a prevalent technique for sheet metal assembly, especially in automotive applications. Achieving proper joint geometry and adequate load-bearing capacity depends on appropriate tool selection and precise process control. Material properties and condition also play a significant role in process performance. To accommodate the inevitable variations in component characteristics during production, a robust and stable joining process is essential. The study focuses on investigating the influence of preformed joining partners on the joining process and the joint's load capacity. An EN AW-6014 in T4 condition, as well as an HCT590X, are used as materials for this study. For this purpose, an exemplary process chain consisting of the steps of performing, joining, and shear load testing is studied. Each process step is implemented using an FE model to predict the outcome of subsequent steps. For analysis of the influence of pre-strain, an optimisation software is used to plan and execute variations of the process. These variations are used to create a meta-model that can describe the relationships between pre-forming and characteristic parameters of subsequent process steps. The resulting model is validated by comparing simulation and experimental data. Finally, in a novel approach, the robustness of the presented process chain is analyzed in terms of a tolerable performance level for the joining partners.