The effect of the solidification conditions on the structure and mechanical properties of high-strength 1960 (in Russia) aluminum alloy

The effects of the die temperature and pressure applied to the liquid melt on structural changes and mechanical properties of wrought 1960 alloy (in Russia) obtained by squeeze casting were investigated. It was shown that a dendrite structure containing primary intermetallic phase particles is formed in the alloy during squeeze casting at the die temperatures 200 and 400 degrees C and applied pressures of 90 and 350 MPa. The cast billets without any macroscopic defects can be obtained only at the die temperature of 400 degrees C. At this temperature, an increase in the applied pressure results in practically no change in the volume fraction of intermetallic phase particles being approximately equal to 9%, and in the increase of the dendrite crystal size from similar to 500 to similar to 600 mu m. The strength of the alloy raises with increase of the die temperatures and applied pressure. At the same time, the ductility of the alloy was less than 1%.