The finite element analysis on planetary rolling process

This paper is focused on using the finite element method to simulate and an alyze the planetary rolling process. First, a basic geometric model of the planetary rolling mill that considers roll profiles and offset angle of the rolls was constructed. Then, a three-dimensional elastic-plastic finite el ement simulation was used to analyze both the deformation characteristics o f this process and the distributions of stress and strain in the workpieces . During simulations, an algorithm called Equation of Meshing was proposed by which the initial contact conditions between the rollers and the workpie ce were successfully derived. Finally, an optimum design method was integra ted into this analysis for seeking the best design variables in order to re duce the cavity conditions in the leading end of milled steel rods. (C) 200 1 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.