Abstract

SALDANA ROBLES, Alberto et al. Finite element model for cutting fiber Agave tequilana Weber. Rev Cie Téc Agr [online]. 2013, vol.22, suppl.1, pp. 15-21. ISSN 2071-0054.

In this work, a 3D model of explicit finite element is developed and validated. The model simulates the blade-fiber interaction during the cutting process of Agave tequilana Weber fiber. In this study, a blade is modeled with geometric characteristics, with smooth edge and angle of attack of 30°. The blade is considered as a rigid body with mechanical properties of a conventional steel. The fiber material follows a bilinear elastoplastic model using the mechanical properties of the fiber. The model allows to study the distribution of stresses, plastic strain, unitary energy and strength; that occurs during fiber cut. The error of unitary energy obtained by the simulation (2,68 J cm^-2) compared to experimental energy (2,77 J cm^-2) is 3,25%. The maximum force that is required on the blade to cut a cross section of 1,0 cm² of agave is 238 N, and the cutting force presents a similar behavior found by other studies. The model is a useful tool to analyze the cutting process, and the parameters obtained can be used to mechanize the harvest.

Keywords : cutting force; unitary energy; explicit finite element; agave harvester.

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