The validation of the upper-bound elemental technique (UBET) in the prediction of strain distributions in forgings

Many researchers have been developing predictive methods in order to establish the behaviour of metals at the onset of plastic flow and the upper-bound elemental technique (UBET) is a particularly suitable practical method which has been developed by the authors. This paper presents a comparison between the strain distribution predicted by UBET with those obtained by an experimental metallographic technique. It describes an experimental evaluation of strain distributions within a moderately complex axisymmetric forged compoment, using an established microstructural evaluation technique. The resultant analysis is then applied to validate the simulated forging and strain distribution obtained by UBET, for the same component. The potential of the UBET for practical application and academic enhancement is demonstrated thereby.