Numerical predictions and experimental validations of ductile damage evolution in sheet metal forming processes

Prediction of forming limit in sheet metal forming is among the most important challenges confronting researchers. In this paper, a fully coupled elastic-plastic-damage model has been developed and implemented into an explicit code. Due to the adoption of the plane stress and finite strain theories, model can predict deformation and damage of parts quickly and accurately. Also, damage initiation, propagation, and fracture in some operations are predicted and validated with experiments. It is concluded that finite strain combined with continuum damage mechanics can be used as a quick tool to predict ductile damage, fracture, and forming limits in sheet metal forming processes.