Complementary approaches for the numerical simulation of the Micro- Plasto-Hydrodynamic Lubrication regime

This paper presents recent investigations in the field of lubricant escapes from asperities. This phenomenon, named Micro Plasto Hydrodynamic Lubrication (MPHL), induces friction variation during metal forming processes. A better understanding of MPH lubrication would lead to a better management of friction, which is a central element in most sheet metal forming processes. To fulfil that goal, experiments were conducted in plane strip drawing using a transparent upper tool in order to observe lubricant flow around macroscopic pyramidal cavities. These experiments were then numerically reproduced with two complementary Finite Element models. The numerical results are discussed in this paper and show good agreement with experimental measurements.