An Investigation of Anisotropic Behavior on 5083 Aluminum Alloy Using Electric Current

Due to more stringent environmental regulations, the demand for strong, lightweight metal alloys, such as AA 5083, has increased. In sheet metal forming, aluminum is preferred over higher density steels to manufacture such parts; however the in-plane anisotropic behavior of AA 5083 alloy greatly affects its formability. Previous researchers have found that mechanical properties of metallic materials can be influenced by DC electrical current, a research area known as Electrically-Assisted Manufacturing (EAM). The research herein is focused on characterizing the in-plane anisotropic behavior of AA 5083 alloy with and without DC current application, while it is loaded in the uniaxial direction. Furthermore, the effects of EAM on Lueder’s banding will also be investigated.