Finite element simulation of fine blanking processes using a pressure-dependent damage model

In order to accurately simulate fine blanking processes, a finite element model valid for numerically describing of such operations has been developed. The numerical simulation of the damage evolution and crack initiation and propagation have been described by means of continuum damage approach. In this paper, two models for damage accumulation has been implemented in the finite element code ABAQUS by means of the user routine (UMAT). The Lemaitre damage model (referred to LMD model) taking into account the influence of triaxiality has been implemented as well as a damage model accumulation. based on the Rice and Tracey ductile fracture criterion allowing for the description of the exponential dependence on triaxiality of the stress field. The comparative study between the results obtained by the simulations using the different damage models and the experimental ones, showed that the LMD model is not able to predict the fracture propagation path in a realistic way. Only the exponential damage evolution gives good results. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.