Deformation behavior and strain homogeneity in equal channel angular extrusion/pressing

Equal channel angular extrusion/pressing (ECAE/ECAP) is a novel severe plastic deformation (SPD) technique widely used for fabrication of bulk nanostructured materials, consolidation of powder materials, and property enhancement of tubular materials. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the deformed materials are strongly dependent on the amount of strain induced and strain homogeneity achieved during the ECAE. The knowledge of deformation behavior and strain homogeneity is essential to design a sound ECAE die. Thus, the current study dealt with the influence of channel angle on the deformation behavior and strain homogeneity in ECAE by conducting finite element simulations with Abaqus/Explicit for a range of channel angles along with the consideration of strain hardening of the material and friction. Complicated and smooth deformation behaviors are observed with ϕ < 90° and ϕ ≥ 90°, respectively. Effective strain variation across the width at the centre of the sample showed that strain homogeneity is greater with ϕ = 90° compared to the other channel angles.