Mechanics of Plastic Deformation
Plastic deformation is a process in which objects and materials change permanently in shape and size due to an applied force. In contrast to elastic deformation, which occurs within a certain range of stress and strain and then returns to its original shape and size, plastic deformation results in permanent deformation. As a result, the object or material does not return to its original shape, size or state.
Plastic deformation is mainly used in metal forming methods such as rolling, forging, bending and extrusion. It is also used in plastic injection moulding and other industrial processes. Most plastic deformation processes involve high temperatures, pressures and elongations, which inhibit recrystallization of the material.
Plastic deformation is a function of the material’s mechanical properties. The strength of the material and its ability to absorb energy before deforming are key mechanical properties that determine how malleable a material is. The yield strength of a material is the amount of force it takes to cause deformation and is a measure of the material’s malleability. The modulus of elasticity is also an important factor as it determines how much force is required to cause plastic deformation.
Plastic deformation is caused by the application of external forces, most commonly through compression. When the force exceeds the yield strength of the material it starts to deform plastically. As the force is applied further, the material starts to flow, or shear along a line, called the shear plane. The material continues to deform in its elongated shape until it reaches its ultimate strength limit, at which point it snaps.
Plastic deformation is an important manufacturing tool used to produce a variety of different products. It is used to create components for automotive, aerospace, telecommunications and medical device industries, among others. By manipulating the shape of the material, engineers can create specific components that meet the desired requirements.
The deformation of a material is strongly influenced by its temperature, strain rate, stress, orientation and stress history. Rising temperatures increase the temperature of the material and make it more pliable, but can also cause recrystallization. The strain rate affects the amount of force necessary to deform the material as a slower rate increases the amount of force required. Stress means the application of a force and the amount of a material that can be deformed is inversely proportional to the stress level. Material orientation affects the paths of deformation and the plane of shear. Finally, the materials stress history can influence its future behavior.
In conclusion, plastic deformation is the process by which objects and materials permanently change in size and shape due to an applied force. This can be caused by compression, which when applied beyond the material’s yield strength causes it to deform plastically along a shear plane. The material’s mechanical properties and external factors influence strongly influence deformation and the amount of force required to break the material. Plastic deformation is an important manufacturing tool used to produce components for automotive and other industries.