Finite element simulation of the effects of friction on the equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) of single pass for high-strength aluminum alloy

Finite element method was employed to simulate the effects of friction on the equal channel angular pressing of single pass for high-strength aluminum alloy. The results indicate that with increasing in factional coefficient, the deformed loading and applied forces are increased, and heterogeneity of strain in core is more and more serious, however, average equilibrium strain of the alloy remains a basically steady value. Loading-displacement curves are divided into five stages:rapid-increment, stable stage, rapid increment, stable stage and rapid decrement. With increasing in frictional coefficient from 0 to 0. 3, the maximum loading is increased by 2. 1 times with applied force increased by 1. 3 times. So during ECAP, it should be considered that clean inner-wall surface for the mould, rational lubricant agent are included to decrease friction and loading to improve grain size and homogeneity of the microstructure in the alloy.