Numerical simulations of the creep deformation of MMCs in 4-point bending mode

The 4-point bending test is a widely used method to determine material parameters. No commonly accepted evaluation methodology is available for materials showing non-linear deformation mechanisms. In the present study micro- and macro-mechanical simulation models of continuously reinforced metal matrix composites are employed to investigate thermo-elasto-plasticity and creep in such experiments. The overall deflection behavior and the underlying mechanisms are identified revealing the interaction of various micromechanical phenomena. Comparisons to a set of experimental results are presented.