Optimal pressing route for continued equal channel angular pressing by finite element analysis

In this paper, the deformation distribution of billets after multi-passes by using equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) routes is investigated by 3D finite element models. The simulation results show that the deformation distribution is more homogenous after two passes by using pressing route C. But if the deformation character of different routes was considered, it may be deduced that route BC is the most effective for deformation homogeneity after multi-pressing as long as the total pressing passes are times of four. The above deduction is ultimately proved by the simulation results of four passes of ECAP process. It means that this route is the most favorable for achieving ultra-fine grained material with more homogenous microstructure.