Application of the GTN model to predict the forming limit diagram of IF-Steel

Forming limit diagrams (FLDs) are extensively used in industries, particularly the auto industry. The establishment of these diagrams using a predictive approach can lead to reduction in both cost and time. In the present work, Gurson-Tvergaard-Needleman (GTN), a porosity-based model, was used to predict the FLD of an interstitial-free steel via finite element simulation. Optimum values of the GTN model were obtained by applying a response surface methodology (RSM) based on central composite design. Results show that RSM is a good method for an appropriate determination of the GTN model parameters, such as initial void volume fraction, effective void volume fraction, critical void volume fraction, and final void volume fraction. Furthermore, the experimental FLD of the specimen steel was considerably predicted using the obtained GTN model parameters.