Localized metal forming simulation by r-s-adapted arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian finite element method

In this paper, an adaptive arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) large deformation finite element method (FEM) is developed for solving metal forming problems with strain localization. The ALE mesh movement is coupled with r-adaptation of automatic node relocation to minimize mesh distortion during the process of deformation. A strain localization phenomenon is incorporated through constitutive relations for porous ductile materials. Prediction of localized deformation is achieved through a multilevel mesh superimposition method, called s-adaptation. A few metal forming problems are simulated to test the effectiveness of this model.