Sergi Menargues

Thixoextrusion of A357 aluminium alloy

The aim of this work is to attempt the application of A357 Al-Si-Mg cast alloy in the thixoextrusion process, evaluating the different forming parameters effect. Thixoextrusion offers several advantages compared with traditional hot-extrusion such as lower pressure, minor friction forces, higher material fluidity and longer tool life. This type of semi-solid process requires high solid fraction (0.7 0.85) is less sensitive to temperature drops and allows more stable material flow at higher speeds. To know the forming parameters that improve the mechanical properties of thixoextruded parts, some extrusion tests were carried out. The results were used as the main criteria for assessing the thixoforming viability of the A357 alloy.

Sub Liquidus Casting Technology for the Production of High Integrity Component

This work is a contribution to improve the knowledge of components behavior produced by semi-solid processes particularly the Sub-Liquidus-Casting process. Die design was supported by using the Procast simulation program. The effect of the different variables of the process in structural integrity of the product has been described and analyzed. The components were produced using A356 alloy formed on a pilot plant with a 400 Ton THT press. The components study was made by RX, metallographic analysis and mechanical tests. The effects of T5 and T6 heat treatments were also studied.

Anodic Oxide Layer Formation on A357 Aluminium Alloy Produced by Thixocasting

Anodizing is widely used in the surface treatment of aluminium alloys in order to preserve the integrity of the alloy surface, to minimize the need for maintenance and repair, and to maximize the component life. The aim of this work is to study the influence heat treatments (T5 and T6) have on the anodization of A357 aluminium alloy produced by a Thixocasting process. In particular the effect of shape, size and distribution of silicon and intermetallic phases on the anodic oxide film formation. SEM and EDS analyses were used to examine the microstructural features found on, within and under the anodic oxide layer. Experiments using a tribometer (pin-on-disc tests) were performed in order to evaluate the friction and wear properties of the different layers.

EN AC-46500 Injected by Semi-Solid Rheocasting

EN AC-46500 aluminium components are formed by Semi-Solid Rheocasting (SSR) in an industrial plant using a 700 tons high pressure machine. The dies wear was designed by the PLCO model of the ProCast simulation software. The components have had a good structural integrity and the mechanical properties after T6 treatment have been equivalent to that obtained by the same alloy by die cast. The present work describes the SSR forming process, the resulting microstructure as well as the optimization of the ageing heat treatment by hardness evolution. The results of the tensile tests make these clear.

A357 Aluminium Cast Alloys for Extrusion Processes

The A357 Al-Si-Mg cast alloy is commonly used for cast production of automotive components in conventional HPDC and in semi-solid processes. The aim of this work is to study the application of A357 cast alloy in thixoextrusion processes. This technology offers new possibilities of application for cast alloys and several advantages in from of conventional processes of hot-extrusion: lower pressure, minor friction forces, higher material fluidity and longer tool life. The thixoextrusion was experimented in a pilot plant, at different speeds and temperatures, with an induction furnace and a 400 Tn press. With ingots of A357 as cast, a tool with a ratio of 8.5 and with temperatures of extrusion around 560 °C, it is possible to obtain extrusion speeds more than 3 m•s-1. In all cases, when the speed of extrusion increases, the press of extrusion decreases. The effect of heat treatments and extrusion speed in the microstructure of the extruded product is evaluated.

Simulation of Thixocasting Processes in Automotive Component

Thixocasting or semi-solid casting is an alternative to the traditional casting processes. A numerical simulation of these methods is useful to define the real process. A new test concept will be presented to determine parameters, such as temperature and rates, as well as the die filling and solidification processes. The simulation tools permit us to understand better the processes, to predict and to eliminate potential defects before they take place. The studied component is a steering knuckle made of an A357 aluminium alloy. The microstructure is characterized by optical microscopy. It has been preceded to the development of a model based on the experimental data, it has been defined to the semi-solid as an homogeneous material with thixotropic properties, and the microstructure is a structural parameter. The results are compared with real tests.