Optimization and investigation of effective parameters in ECAP-Conform process using response surface method, case study: AA7075 rod

The ECAP-Conform is one of the newest and less known processes that improve mechanical properties. In the present study, the effective parameters of the ECAP-Conform process for AA7075 have been investigated. Influence of parameters such as roller radius, bending angle, die channel angles, rod/roll friction coefficient, rod/die friction coefficient, and the aspect ratio of the die groove on the torque, the applied force on the die, the stress, and the effective plastic strain, the output rod curvature, and the strain distribution uniformity have been investigated. The design of experiments was carried out based on the response surface method by the Minitab software, and simulations were performed using the ABAQUS software. To validate the FEM, the ECAP-Conform process of AA7075 rod was performed and the comparison of experimental and numerical results have acceptable compliance (7.5% error). It was found that the die channel angles and the rod/die friction coefficient have a more significant effect on all responses. Moreover, to maximize the imposed strain and strength, and to minimize the process torque and curvature, as well as achieving a uniform distribution of strain, the optimal output parameters have been obtained.