Finite Element Analysis of β-Titanium during Equal Channel Angular Extrusion

The finite element analysis was applied to evaluate the respective influences of die geometry and process conditions on plastic strain distribution for β-titanium (Ti-13V11Cr3Al) during the equal channel angular extrusion. It was found that optimum ECAE die geometry is strongly material dependent. Optimal strain homogeneity in the Ti-13V11Cr3Al alloy may be achieved at r (inner radius) =5mm, R (outer radius) =3mm. The equivalent plastic strain increases with increasing friction coefficient. And the better homogeneity of the equivalent plastic strain distribution can be achieved when m=0.1. The faster is the ram speed, the lower is the homogeneity of the equivalent plastic strain distribution. The back-pressure can increase the strain level across the workpiece and prevent the problem of surface cracking induced by tensile stresses. The distribution of the plastic strain is not temperature sensitive between 400°C and 600°C.