Novel evaluation method for metal workability during cross wedge rolling process

This study presents a novel method using a disk-like sample to assess the workability of metal during the cross wedge rolling (CWR) process. Using this method, we can quantitatively evaluate the moment destruction which occurs at the center of the sample during CWR. In this study, 45 steel was selected to demonstrate the proposed method. Firstly, we designed a model for the tools and sample, conducted finite element simulations to analyze the distribution regulations of metal flow, stress, and strain, and evaluated the relationship between the damage and moving distance of the tool during the forming process. Then, we obtained the optimal deformation temperature range, rolling speed, and geometry parameters for the tool. Finally, experiments were conducted from 20 °C to 1 200 °C to verify the accuracy of the developed model. It was demonstrated that the model was significantly accurate in accessing the workability of 45 steel in the CWR process. The proposed method could be generalized to investigate the CWR process for other materials, such as aluminum alloys, superalloys, titanium alloys, etc.