Finite element simulations of sheet-metal forming processes for planar-anisotropic materials

Sheet-metal farming simulations are made using a plane-stress yield functio n proposed by Ferron et al. for orthotropic sheets. Following the general m ethod for the integration of rate-independent plasticity models, the yield function has been implemented in the implicit Abaqus/Standard finite elemen t code. Simple forming operations are simulated, such as the hemispherical punch test and the cup drawing test. The combined effects of theological an d tribological parameters on the strain distributions and the limits to for mability are analysed, and discussed in relation with improved descriptions of the yield surface. Also, the magnitude of ears predicted for the cup dr awing test is compared with experimental values on tin-plate steel. (C) 200 1 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.