A new constitutive model for the finite element simulation of local hot forming of aluminum 6xxx alloys

Abstract

A new internal variable constitutive model for the use in finite element (FE) simulation of local hot forming of 6xxx aluminum alloys is presented. The model relates the flow stress to the temperature, total strain rate, and internal variables, which represent the dislocation density and the contributions to the hardening stress from elements in solid solution and precipitates. The time evolutions of the internal variables are modeled by an equation representing the accumulation/ annihilation of dislocations and by a precipitate model developed elsewhere, taking into account a size distribution of precipitates. The parameters of the constitutive model have been fitted to tensile tests at different temperatures, strain rates, and precipitate states. © The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society and ASM International 2008.