Finite element analysis of localization in FCC polycrystalline sheets under plane stress tension

Localization phenomena in thin sheets subjected to plane stress tension are investigated. The sheet is modelled as a polycrystalline aggregate, and a finite element analysis based on rate-dependent crystal plasticity is developed to simulate large strain behaviour. Accordingly, each material point in the specimen is considered to be a polycrystalline aggregate consisting of a large number of FCC grains. The Taylor model of crystal plasticity theory is assumed. This analysis accounts for initial textures as well as texture evolution during large plastic deformations. The numerical analysis incorporates certain parallel computing features. Simulations have been carried out for an aluminum sheet alloy, and the effects of various parameters on the formation and prediction of localized deformation (in the form of necking and/or in-plane shear bands) are examined. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.