3D-finite-element-modelling of microstructures with the method of multiphase elements

Abstract We present a 3D-multiphase element which permits the finite-element-modelling of the plastic deformation of realistic 3D-microstructures. In contrast to conventional ‘singlephase elements’ where the phase boundaries are simulated by element edges, the ‘multiphase element’ can be assigned to different materials when a phase boundary runs across it. The 3D-multiphase element is firstly applied to a simple test geometry. The efficiency of the 3D-multiphase element method is demonstrated by the analysis of a more complex 3D-microstructure. Finally, for a comparison of 2D- and 3D-simulations the stress distribution obtained in the 3D-calculation is compared with the results of a 2D-simulation of a representative intersection of the microstructure.