Electroplasticity and electrically-assisted forming: A critical review

Higher requirements for precision forming of high-performance, light-weight and high-utility function components in aerospace urge the need for exploring the potential of the forming of hard-to-deform materials. Application of electric current in deformation causes the drop of the flow stress and improvement of ductility of metals, and this phenomenon is termed as Electro Plastic Effect (EPE). Electrically-Assisted Forming (EAF), which combines EPE with the conventional plastic forming technology, can significantly increase the forming limit and quality. EAF is of high accuracy, and is promising for the manufacturing and shaping of hard-to-deform materials. After a review of the experimental design of EPE and research on Joule effect, electron wind effect and magnetic effect, the effects of current treatment on the microstructure and properties of materials are reviewed with respect to recovery, recrystallization, phase change and defects healing. The development of EAF in electroplastic drawing, rolling and micro forming is then analyzed. The problems in the understanding of EPE mechanisms and the technical challenges for EAF innovation and industrialized application are also summarized.