New generations of advanced high-strength steel (AHSS) are helping manufacturers overcome some of the biggest headaches in modern vehicle construction—cracking, splitting and complex panel forming.
As vehicles get stronger to meet crash standards, parts like B-pillars have become harder to manufacture, with traditional steels struggling during forming—particularly around edges and deep draws.
The latest 3rd-generation AHSS is designed to balance strength with ductility, reducing issues like:
- Edge cracking on shear-cut panels
- Splitting in deep-drawn sections
- Inconsistent behaviour during forming and repair
In testing, newer grades with higher edge ductility were able to eliminate cracking in complex B-pillar shapes, while improved elongation reduced split risk in lower sections—all at the same strength levels.
To read the full article from World Auto Steel click here.