Finite Element Analysis of Die Geometry and Process Conditions Effects on Equal Channel Angular Extrusion for β-Titanium Alloy

Abstract

The finite element analysis was applied to evaluate the respective influences of die geometry and process conditions on plastic strain distribution for β-titanium (Ti-13V11Cr3Al) alloy during the equal channel angular extrusion (ECAE). It was found that optimum equal channel angular extrusion die geometry is strongly material dependent. Optimal strain homogeneity in the Ti-13V11Cr3Al alloy may be achieved at r (inner radius) = 5 mm, R (outer radius) = 3 mm. The equivalent plastic strain increases with increasing friction coefficient. And the better homogeneity of the equivalent plastic strain distribution can be achieved when friction coefficient value is lower. The faster the ram speed is, the lower the homogeneity of the equivalent plastic strain distribution is and the influence is slight. The back-pressure does not help to improve the plastic strain homogeneity, and the increasing temperature has a slightly favourable effect on the plastic strain homogeneity between 400 and 600 °C.