A crystallographic slip-based model for cube-oriented single crystals was developed from an idealization of the dislocation networks that were seen in active slip systems such as (110)<110>. It was found that the model successfully accounted for the steady-state cyclic behavior of the crystals. It accurately predicted the dependence of the flow stress, upon temperature, strain-rate and dislocation density, which arose from the lattice resistance to dislocation motion and from obstacle/dislocation interactions. Kinematic and isotropic hardening modes which were associated with defect trails and dislocation storage, respectively, were correctly modelled. The average distance through which dislocations had to glide, for their density to increase beyond the level that was required to balance dynamic recovery processes, was predicted to be some 260 times the random forest dislocation spacing. The measured dislocation densities at various mean strains were found to be consistent with the predictions of the theoretical model.

E.P.Busso, F.A.McClintock: International Journal of Plasticity, 1996, 12[1], 1-28