On the die corner gap formation in equal channel angular pressing

A die internal corner gap is usually found during equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) of materials. Finite element analysis using the DEFORM2D code is carried out in order to investigate the corner gap formation between the die and workpiece during the plane strain ECAP process. The comparison of the deformation and the corner gap formation behaviour between the strain hardening material and the quasi-perfect plastic material was made. The mechanism of the corner gap formation is described in conjunction with the strain hardening behaviour and local flow velocity of the workpiece in the deforming zone. The adjustment of the corner angle from the die corner angle to the arc curvature of the workpiece is necessary for a better prediction of the strain during ECAP.