Finite element simulation of microindentation on aluminum

Vickers indentation of 6061-T6 aluminum was modeled using a three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA) program. Two different work hardening behaviors were assumed. The results were compared with actual indentations using both a static microindenter and a load and depth recording microindenter. The hardness and plastic flow behavior showed excellent agreement, validating the FEA model, and implying that the work hardening of the aluminum decreases past a compressive strain of 0.09. The unloading results were analyzed using Sneddon's solution for the indentation of an elastic half-space by a rigid axisymmetric indenter. The results confirm the validity of applying Sneddon's solution in this case, implying that Bolshakov and Pharr's corrections of Sneddon's solution (which were determined for a conical indenter) are not directly applicable tothe Vickers indenter.