Mathematical model of deformation and microstructural evolution during hot rolling of aluminium alloy 5083

A mathematical model to predict the through thickness temperature, strain and strain rate distributions during hot rolling and the subsequent microstructure evolution was developed using the commercial finite element package ABAQUS. Microstructure evolution predictions included the amount of recrystallisation through the thickness of the sheet based on its thermomechanical history during rolling and thermal history after rolling. The equations used to predict the microstructure evolution were based on semiempirical relationships found in the literature for a 5083 aluminium alloy. Validation of the model predictions was done using comprehensive experimental measurements which were conducted using the Corns research multimill, a pilot scale experimental rolling facility, in Ijmuiden, The Netherlands. The results indicate that the through thickness temperature and strain distribution predictions for the rolling operation are reasonable. Hence, the boundary conditions used in the finite element model adequately represent the interface heat transfer and friction conditions. Microstructure predictions using the literature based equations significantly underestimate the amount of recrystallisation occurring in the sheet. A sensitivity analysis indicates that the recrystallisation kinetics are extremely sensitive to the fitting parameters used in the microstructure equation, and that the gradient in the recrystallisation kinetics is the result of the temperature gradient experienced by the specimen during deformation.