Abstract
The manuscript provides a comprehensive overview of the W-temper forming (WT-F) process employed in the fabrication of sheet metal from 7xxx alloys. A diagram of the forming process is presented, taking into account the individual stages and the most important parameters of heat and plastic treatment. The literature review covers the characteristics of alloys tested during WT-F: EN AW-7075 and EN AW-7021. An analysis of previously published results was conducted in the following areas: strength and hardness tests, the effect of natural and artificial aging time on the mechanical properties of supersaturated aluminum alloys, determination of forming limit diagrams in the W-temper state and WT-F of U-profiles, car B-pillars, car floor panels, and door beams. A literature review showed that forming EN AW-7075 and EN AW-7021 in the W-temper state allows for the production of crack-free products, which is impossible to form with cold forming of sheets in the T6 state. Numerous studies have successfully formed components with complex geometries without defects or cracks, while achieving high true tensile strength values, reaching up to 600–620 MPa – significantly above the levels of typical 5000 and 6000 series alloys used in the automotive industry. While paint baking slightly reduces strength and ductility, it can also improve yield strength.