Simulation studies on deformation behaviour of AA2017 alloy in semi-solid state using FEA

Abstract

Thixo-forming is one of the near net shaped manufacturing processes in which the final product is made between the liquidus and solidus temperatures. Forming the product at this temperature range provides large benefits compared to conventional forming methods. In the present work, deformation mechanism of AA2017 alloy in the semi-solid state has been studied. As the mechanical behaviour and deformation mechanism of semi-solid metal is completely different from that of the solid state forming, it is necessary to investigate its nature at the semi solid range. To analyse the metal flow, the stress behaviour and the corresponding strain induced, extensive finite element analysis (FEA) based simulation studies have been performed. The commercial software, DEFORM 2D was used for the simulation. The flow behaviour was modelled by formulating an Arrhenius type constitutive relation.