Microstructure based flow stress model to predict machinability in ferrite–pearlite steels

Abstract A new flow stress model is proposed to describe the behaviour of ferrite–pearlite steels based on microstructure properties, including the effect of high strains, strain rates and temperatures. The model introduces strain hardening as a function of the pearlite ratio, interlamellar spacing and ferrite grain size. A non-linear thermal softening, and the coupling between strain rate and temperature are also introduced. Tested on a 2D ALE model, predicted cutting forces, tool temperatures, chip thickness and tool wear results obtained good agreement when compared to orthogonal cutting tests of four ferrite–pearlite steels, covering a wide range of microstructure variants.