Numerical analysis for the prediction of microstructure after hot forming of structural metals

Abstract

The importance of structural metals for industrial applications is based on their superior combination of mechanical properties-strength, elongation, toughness and corrosion resistance-achieved at the end of forming processes. A numerical analysis for the prediction of microstructure is strongly required for the optimization of hot forming process parameters, because the microstructure of structural metals, which has the significant effects on mechanical properties, is strongly dependent to forming process conditions as well as the chemical composition. The incremental dislocation density and microstructural evolution analysis method enables the prediction of the change in microstructure after forming. The outline of the analytical scheme is explained briefly, and the results of its application to strip rolling, bar rolling and shape rolling are presented. Finally, the remaining research topics in this field are discussed. ©2009 The Thermoelectrics Society of Japan.