Process Optimization for Flexible Self-Pierce Riveting of Multi-Material Structures

One of the most important mechanical joining technologies for mixed-material car body constructions is self-pierce riveting with semi-tubular rivet (SPR-ST). In order to achieve appropriate joint quality for SPR-ST, it is often necessary to use individual process parameters like die geometry or rivet length for each material and thickness combination. In this paper a method is presented, that allows to increase the flexibility of the SPR-ST process by an optimization of process parameters in regard to join several material combinations with one die geometry. Thereby FEM simulation is combined with statistical approaches to develop an optimized SPR-ST process.