P. Hartley

Finite Element Plasticity and Metalforming Analysis is concerned with describing a computer based technique for aiding the optimisation of metalforming processes. These methods should enable tool and product designers to reduce development lead times for the introduction of new products, to optimise the process and to help improve the quality and reliability of products. The book is specifically devoted to the finite element method and its use in plasticity problems. It details the theoretical background assuming little previous knowledge, and describes how it can be implemented and used to examine realistic metalforming processes. Forging, rolling and extrusion are typical processes covered, in addition to specific problems such as ductile fracture and how it can be predicted. It is the first text that describes in detail elastic-plastic finite-element theory and how it is used in forming analyses. The technique described can be used to simulate metal flow in 2- and 3-D problems and can provide details of stress, strain, strain-rate and temperature distributions in the workpiece as it is being formed.