A successful illustration of a forming process in a simulation requires an exact definition of all involved factors. Little deviations for example in friction or batch fluctuations are only two of several sources of error that are possible and that could lead to a deviation of simulation results from reality.

In order to exclude these sources of error, tool examination and characterisation as well as tribological and metallographic investigations come into use. In doing so, an exact definition of necessary simulation parameters is possible and allows a better use of the forming potential of metallic sheet metal material by a process and loading-based characterisation of the forming behaviour.