Three-dimensional finite element analysis of block compression

Based on rigid-viscoplastic formulation three-dimensional finite element analysis was performed for block compression. Discretization of the variational form of the equilibrium equation is made with 8-node hexahedral isoparametric elements. In the treatment of the traction prescribed boundary condition, velocity dependent friction was used. Simulations of compression of simple rectangular blocks were performed for two geometries under two friction conditions for each geometry. Comparison of some of the computed results with experiments showed excellent agreement.The technique was further extended to take into account the presence of a neutral zone, occurrence of folding and lifting, and applied to the analysis of compression of a wedge-shaped block between two flat parallel dies. Again, the computed results predict the actual characteristics of deformation accurately.