Sup3rForm took part in the 44th Conference of the International Deep Drawing Research Group (IDDRG 2025), held from 1–5 June 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal.

During the conference, David Frómeta, project’s coordinator from Eurecat, presented Sup3rForm’s latest contribution to the field: “Enhanced ductility and fracture resistance classification maps for advanced high-strength steels considering local ductility and fracture toughness.”

This work, available as an open-access publication, proposes a novel approach to evaluating Advanced High-Strength Steels (AHSS) by incorporating fracture toughness into existing classification frameworks.

Traditionally, AHSS materials have been assessed using global and local ductility as key indicators of their formability. However, this research demonstrates that fracture toughness plays an equally critical role in predicting performance under demanding conditions. By combining ductility measures with fracture toughness, Sup3rForm has developed enhanced classification maps that offer a more nuanced and accurate understanding of material behaviour.

This methodology proves particularly valuable when applied to advanced third-generation AHSS, such as Quenching & Partitioning (Q&P) and Medium Manganese (Medium Mn) steels. These materials often show similar behaviour under conventional tensile testing, yet their resistance to fracture can vary significantly. The new classification approach helps to reveal these differences, supporting the design of safer, more reliable automotive components.

The IDDRG 2025 conference gathered leading experts in metal forming and materials research to explore the latest developments in manufacturing and material performance.