Prediction and validation of grain shape evolution by 3D FEM simulations of a real industrial profile

The simulation of microstructural evolution during the extrusion of an AA6063 industrial profile with the commercial Qform VX code is presented and discussed. The description of the grain shape evolution model through specifically developed user-routine is initially presented, then the experimental setup is described in details. Predicted numerical results are compared and discussed with respect to experimental data: relevant outputs like load-stroke diagram, profile speed and thermal distribution in the profile well match with the experimental data. The prediction of the final grain size obtained by the code with air quenching conditions is then compared to experimental measurements. A discussion on potentials and limits of the proposed model is finally presented.