Microstructural deformation in the clinching process

Abstract

Need – There is a need to better understand the shear and plastic deformation that arises during clinch joint formation. Since microstructural texture preserves a history of deformation, grain structure has the potential to reveal the role of the operational parameters. Objective – This study elucidates the grain morphology of clinched joints using electron backscattering diffraction (EBSD) microscopy. Results – The main characteristics of grain morphology are equiaxed grains in the base material, with markedly elongated grain morphology and smaller grains in the necked region. Interpretation – The morphology is attributed to extensive plastic deformation causing the mechanochemical effect of dynamic recrystallization whereby localised recrystallization occurs along with transformation of grain morphology, followed by subsequent solutionizing and precipitation. Originality - An explanation is provided for the microstructural transformations during the clinching process.