Insights to Extrusion from Finite Element Modeling

The modeling of extrusion of various Al alloys and their particulate metal matrix composites was conducted by DEFORM™ finite element analysis to develop strain rate, stress and temperature distributions through the peak load and into steady state following development of the hot zone. The hot strength and ductility, constitutive constants and microstructural evolution had been determined by hot torsion. The relative load-stroke curves were determined for several billet temperatures, extrusion ratios and ram speeds. The grid distortion and distributions of important internal parameters define the evolution of microstructure. The extrudability was estimated on the basis of load, ductility and the potential for modeling the microstructure developed.