Clinched joining mechanical performance in multiple states.

With the continuous advancement of lightweight vehicle body technology, clinching has become the focus of lightweight sheet connection technology recently owing to its high efficiency and superior joint properties. This study focused on the clinching progress of common metals used in car bodies. The changes in the joining mechanical properties due to the heat treatment before and after the formation are described herein. Several new clinching methods and joint repairs have been proposed. An overview on clinching, in terms of fretting wear and fatigue properties, is also presented. In addition, current research on fretting fatigue wear and crack extension damage mechanisms is presented. Finally, the trends in research on clinching development and fatigue failure mechanism are reviewed and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]