A new route for developing ultrafine-grained Al alloy strips using repetitive bending under tension

In this work, the mechanical behaviour and microstructure changes of AA-7075 alloy subjected to a repetitive-bending-under-tension (R-BUT) process were studied. R-BUT process, metallic strip undergoes repeated localised bending unbending. Load-displacement curves derived from tested samples displayed drastic increase in elongation failure as compared standard tensile tests. Additionally, results confirmed that force required deform is much reduced load during simple tension. Finite element analysis sample underwent intense shear deformation. Transmission-electron-microscopy (TEM) electron-backscattered-diffraction (EBSD) deformed matrix ND-RD plane (through-thickness) exhibited evidence for formation fine grains. TEM grains formed size range 200–400 nm. Intense deformation experienced by led shearing followed spheroidization precipitate particles. The influence particles on grain refinement through Particle Stimulated Nucleation also presented. EBSD suggested Continuous Dynamic Recrystallisation key mechanism behind processing.