Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a metal object wherein first and second coils are provided in close proximity to and in electromagnetic association with each other, the first coil is in driving association with a forming tool for forming the metal object and the first and second coils are supported in a manner allowing movement of the first coil relative to the second coil, and wherein an electric current pulse is supplied simultaneously to the first and second coils to produce a repulsive electromagnetic force sufficient to accelerate the first coil and drive the forming tool to perform a forming operation on the metal object, the pulses being shaped in accordance with a characteristic of the object being formed. The pulse shaping aspect includes matching the magnetic force based on the current pulse with the stress-strain characteristic of the object being formed. A voltage doubling network can be employed to provide increased output force.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a metal object such as upsetting a fastener in a workpiece wherein first and second coils are provided in close proximity to and in electromagnetic association with each other, the first coil is in driving association with a forming tool adapted for forming the metal object and the first and second coils are supported in a manner allowing movement of the first coil relative to the second coil, and wherein an electric current pulse is supplied simultaneously to the first and second coils to produce a repulsive electromagnetic force sufficient to accelerate the first coil and driving the forming tool to form the metal object, the pulses being shaped in accordance with a characteristic of the metal object. The pulse shaping includes matching the magnetic force based on the current pulse with the stress-strain characteristic of the metal object being formed.