Discrete Element method, a tool to investigate contacts in material forming

This paper is devoted to the description of a numerical tool that allows the local study of contacts in material forming: Discrete Element Method (DEM). Discrete Element Methods allow the study of local properties (cohesion, thermal generation, fractures) on process behavior. This tool is used as molecular dynamics but allows the simulation of much representative volumes. Discrete element method is applied as a tool to understand/propose/confirm, physical scenario involved in the contact zone. It is shown in this paper how such numerical simulations can be used as a complementary tool for forming processes study. Examples are given on thermal study in cutting process, subsurface damages analysis in abrasion process and welding joint characterization in Friction Stir welding.