Computational implementation of stress integration in FE analysis of elasto-plastic large deformation problems

In this paper, we compare different numerical implementation algorithms for the rate type constitutive equation and present an integration scheme based on the physical meaning of the stress. Numerical implementation of various schemes is investigated in conjunction with the return mapping algorithm and the conditions to maintain plastic consistency. Jaumann and Truesdell rates are taken as the objective stress rates in the constitutive equation. An alternative numerical treatment for rate of deformation tensor D-ij is presented and is shown to maintain incremental objectivity. Numerical examples included a single element under rigid body rotation, a necking bifurcation of a bar in tension and a punch indentation process. It is shown that the use of Truesdell stress rate with specific numerical integration procedure gives more accurate results than other procedures presented. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.