Rate and Orientation Dependence of Formability in Fine-Grained AZ31B-O Mg Alloy Thin Sheet

Uniaxial tension and press forming tests were carried out at two different strain rates and temperatures to investigate the formability of fine-grained AZ31B-O Mg alloy thin sheet. Formability parameters were determined by tensile test results. The tensile properties and formability parameters were correlated with the forming limit diagrams. The present work focused on the effects of loading orientation and deformation rate on formability. Anisotropic behaviors were observed in the mechanical properties. Maximum strengths were obtained in the direction perpendicular to the rolling direction (RD). It can be concluded that the formability of the rolled fine-grained AZ31B-O Mg alloy sheet can be influenced by loading orientation and deformation rate. Stretch formability can be enhanced at a higher deformation rate, resulting from a lower anisotropy and a higher work hardening effect. In contrast, the drawing processes can be performed at a lower deformation rate to take advantage of a higher anisotropic behavior. Specimens with the RD parallel to the major strain in the press forming tests can enhance stretch formability, whereas specimens with the RD perpendicular to the major strain can improve deep-drawability.