A computer program has been developed to analyse one-dimensional elasto-pla
stic wave propagation in a powder-filled container. A numerical integration
along characteristic curves is introduced in this program. Characteristic
curves are derived from an equation of motion, a constitutive equation and
a compatibility equation. In the constitutive equation, the effect of strai
n rate is taken into consideration. Using this computer program, loading co
nditions to obtain uniform strain distribution are examined, varying parame
ters such as the duration and peak of impulses.
The following results were obtained: (1) the increase in strain near the fi
xed end of the container caused by the reflection of the plastic wave contr
ibutes to the uniform strain distribution; (2) this wave reflection has the
same effect as the usage of a floating die; and (3) for the part with a sp
ecific aspect ratio, there is an optimum condition of the duration and peak
of the impulse. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.