Viscoplasticity Based on Total Strain. The Modelling of Creep With Special Considerations of Initial Strain and Aging

A previously proposed theory is specialized for the uniaxial state of stress and its prediction for creep and relaxation is analyzed in detail. Constant true stress and constant load creep tests are simulated in the presence and absence of thermal aging together with the constant strain relaxation test. The signs of the creep rate and its time derivative as well as the relaxation rate and its time derivative are introduced as criteria. The constant load creep test can reproduce the normal creep curves and nonclassical creep curves (ε˙ > 0; ε¨ > 0 for all ε and for σ₀ > 0). The capabilities of the constant true stress test are limited to primary creep if the work-hardening slope is positive. When aging is introduced almost any creep curve can be reproduced in both tests. The importance of initial strain is discussed and demonstrated by room temperature creep tests on Type 304 Stainless Steel. It is suggested that the initial strains together with the creep curves be reported in the future. Poisson’s ratio in creep needs to be measured and tests are proposed which will enable a quantitative assessment of aging.