Isothermal forging of AA2618 reinforced with 20% of alumina particles

The isothermal forming behaviour of AA2618 + 20% Al2O3 has been studied by hot-torsion and hot-compression tests. The constitutive equations and the strain rate sensitivity coefficient of the investigated composite were estimated from flow stress curves. The strain rate sensitivity coefficient reached the highest values in the temperature and strain rate ranges of 450-500 degreesC and 10(-2)- 10(-1) s(-1), respectively. The microstructural evolution of the material during deformation was studied by optical and scanning electron microscopy. The degree of material damage was evaluated in terms of matrix-particle decohesion and particles fracture. A three-dimensional FEM modelling of a real industrial component was performed in order to determine the best forging conditions. This component was isothermally forged under the process conditions derived by the FEM simulations, a defect free product was thus obtained. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.