In project area A "Process technology", forming processes and their influence on production process chains are considered from a technological point of view. The overarching goal is the analysis and further development of the forming processes concerning damage development.

Two process chains are investigated:

1. The bulk forming process chain begins with a hot forming process of caliber hot rolling (project A01). This process is used to produce bar material from cast billets. The bar material is further processed by cold extrusion (project A02).

2. The sheet metal forming process chain begins with the production of sheet blanks by flat rolling (project A04). The sheet blanks are further processed into components either by bending (project A05) or deep drawing (project A06).

In the first funding period (1^st  to 4^th research year) the connection between the production processes, the load paths, and the resulting damage development is primarily investigated. On the basis of these findings, an analysis and evaluation of the influence of damage on the component properties is carried out. Finally, methods are developed and made available with which a prediction and targeted influencing of the damage development is made possible.

Projects of project area A: