Sample size effect on the dynamic torsional behaviour of the 2A12 aluminium alloy

Abstract In order to investigate the effect of sample size on the dynamic torsional behaviour of the 2A12 aluminium alloy. In this paper, torsional split Hopkinson bar tests are conducted on this alloy with different sample dimensions. It is found that with the decreasing gauge length and thickness, the tested yield strength increases. However, the sample inner/outer diameter has little effect on the dynamic torsional behaviour. Based on the finite element method, the stress states in the alloy with different sample sizes are analysed. Due to the effect of stress concentration zone (SCZ), the shorter sample has a higher yield stress. Furthermore, the stress distributes more uniformly in the thinner sample, which leads to the higher tested yield stress. According to the experimental and simulation analysis, some suggestions on choosing the sample size are given as well.