Finite Element Simulation of Heat Transfer during Cryogenic Asymmetric Sheet Rolling of Aluminum Alloys
Aluminum and its alloys are widely used as structural materials in aerospace, automotive and other industries due to low density and high specific strength. Efficient way to increase strength and other properties of aluminum alloys is to form an ultra fine grain structure using severe plastic deformation methods. Cryogenic asymmetric sheet rolling under liquid nitrogen temperature is a process of severe plastic deformation that can be used to improve the aluminum alloys structure and properties. Prediction of sheet temperature during plastic deformation is very important. The temperature of sheet is changed due to the conversion of mechanical work of deformation into heat through sliding on contact surfaces. This paper presents the results of the finite element simulation of heat transfer during cryogenic asymmetric sheet rolling of aluminum alloy 6061. The effect of thickness reduction, rolling velocity and friction coefficient on the deformation heating and temperature field of aluminum alloy 6061 was found. The results of investigation could be useful for the development of the optimal treatment process of aluminum alloys by cryogenic severe plastic deformation to obtain the ultra fine grain structure and high strength properties.