A computational study of die geometry and processing conditions effects on equal channel angular extrusion of a polymer

Equal channel angular extrusion (ECAE) is an efficient process to obtain enhanced microstructures via super-plastic deformation. In view of its optimisation, it is of prime importance to assess the relationships between processing conditions and material flow. More precisely, detailed knowledge of the plastic strain distribution in the extruded material in relation to the ECAE processing variables is required. The key parameters of the ECAE process are primarily die geometry, ram speed, extrusion temperature, use of back-pressure, number of extrusion sequences and processing route (e.g. rotation of the sample between successive passes). A numerical investigation was achieved to check out the influence of these parameters on the homogeneity of plastic strain distribution in the case of a conventional thermoplastic polymer. Material parameters of a phenomenological elastic viscoplastic model were deduced from compressive deformation tests at different temperatures and strain rates on high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Recommendations on tool geometry and processing conditions can then be provided, according to the numerical results.It was found that optimum ECAE die geometry is strongly material dependent. The application of a back-pressure significantly contributes to reduce the corner gap and consequently promotes the homogeneity of the plastic strain field. A slight sensitivity of plastic strain to ram speed and friction conditions was pointed out. The extrusion temperature strongly influences the magnitude of the plastic strain and has a slight effect on its homogeneity. The number of passes has a significant effect on the magnitude of the plastic strain but has a negligible influence beyond a certain temperature. The extruded material reaches a stationary strain state after few passes. The homogeneity of the plastic strain field is strongly affected by the processing route.