Finite element analysis on the micro-forming process of Zr-based bulk metallic glass

Bulk metallic glasses have exhibited superior microforming ability, and can be used to make high strength microparts. The micro-forming process of Zr-based amorphous alloy in micro silicon molds with the modulus 0.1mm, 20 teeth and 300µm in depth is simulated using the DEFORM 3D, a finite element simulation software. The filling process and the impact of billet size on forming load are analyzed. The results indicate that the numerical simulations match well with the experimental load-strain curves at low strain rates. The micro-forming process is optimized, and then a micro spur gear with good dimensional accuracy is obtained using the improved process. Thus, the finite element analyses on the micro-forming process of BMG are helpful for process optimization and microparts fabrication.