Billet cropping numerical modelling: an approach based on inverse analysis

The paper presents the development of a numerical model of the slugs shearing process properly calibrated through experimental simulative tests. To this aim a mechanical cropping device was designed and set up; the numerical model of the process was developed considering the previous drawing step to take into account the process chain effect. Compression tests were carried out to determine the material rheological behaviour, while uniaxial tensile tests were devoted to gain workability data to be implemented in the fracture criterion. The accuracy of simulated results is discussed and possible causes of deviation from experimental data underlined and critically assessed.