Numerical modelling of powder compaction

A Ph.D. study. Different porous material models have been implemented in a finite strain finite element programme in order to study the porosity and stress distributions in various compacts. Main focus has been on a combination of two material models with different micromechanical bases to be able to cover the whole range of porosity during the powder compaction. A particle based material model is used to model the material in the beginning of the process and a void model is used later on in the process at lower porosities. Contact and friction between the powder and the mould play an important role in the process; this is modelled by Coulombs friction model.