Localized metal forming simulation by r-s-adapted arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian finite element method

In this paper, an adaptive arbitrary Lagrangian—Eulerian (ALE) large deformation finite element method (FEM) is developed for solving metal forming problems with strain localization. The ALE mesh movement is coupled with r-adaptation of automatic node relocation to minimize mesh distortion during the process of deformation. A strain localization phenomenon is incorporated through constitutive relations for porous ductile materials. Prediction of localized deformation is achieved through a multilevel mesh superimposition method, called s-adaptation. A few metal forming problems are simulated to test the effectiveness of this model.