Numerical validation of the shear compression specimen. Part I: Quasi-static large strain testing

The shear compression specimen (SCS), which is used for large strain testing, is thoroughly investigated numerically using three-dimensional elastoplastic finite element simulations. In this first part of the study we address quasi-static loading. A bi-linear material model is assumed. We investigate the effect of geometrical parameters, such as gage height and root radius, on the stress and strain distribution and concentration. The analyses show that the stresses and strains are reasonably uniform on a typical gage mid-section, and their average values reflect accurately the prescribed material model. We derive accurate correlations between the averaged von Mises stress and strain and the applied experimental load and displacement. These relations depend on the specimen geometry and the material properties. Numerical results are compared to experimental data, and an excellent agreement is observed. This study confirms the potential of the SCS for large strain testing of material.