A texture discretization technique adapted to polycrystalline aggregates with non-uniform grain size

This paper presents a new procedure for the sampling of crystallographic textures into discrete lattice orientations. The method is, for example, useful in order to assign initial grain orientations in crystal-plasticity-based finite element simulation of forming processes. The discretization technique ensures that the orientation sampling is statistically representative of a known orientation distribution function (ODF). Contrary to previous discretization techniques, the new method is valid also when the model microstructure consists of grains with non-uniform size. The accuracy of the texture representation is assessed in the case of cold rolled IF steel. Crystal plasticity theory coupled to finite element modeling is used to predict mechanical planar anisotropy of the sheet. Comparison is made between model predictions assuming, respectively, a uniform or a heterogeneous grain-size distribution. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.