Effect of T6 Heat Treatment on the Microstructure and Hardness of Secondary AlSi9Cu3(Fe) Alloys Produced by Semi-Solid SEED Process

The effect of the T6 heat treatment on the microstructure and hardness of a secondary semi-solid AlSi9Cu3(Fe) alloy have been investigated by using optical, scanning and transmission electron microscopy and hardness testing. The semi-solid alloy was produced using the swirled enthalpy equilibration device (SEED). The solution heat treatments were performed at 450, 470 and 490 degrees C for 1 to 6 h followed by water quenching and artificial ageing at 160, 180 and 220 degrees C for holding times ranging from 1 to 30 h. The microstructural investigations have revealed the spheroidization of the eutectic Si and the dissolution of the majority of Cu-rich compounds after all the solution heat treatments; moreover, the greater the solution temperature and time, the higher the hardness of the alloy. Unacceptable surface blistering has been observed for severe solution condition, 490 degrees C for 3 and 6 h. The artificial ageing at 160 degrees C for 24 h has led to the highest alloy strengthening thanks to the precipitation of beta '' and Q' (or L) phases within the alpha-Al matrix. The hardening peaks at higher temperatures have been early achieved due to faster hardening kinetic; however, the lower number density of beta '' and Q' (or L) phases and the presence of coarser theta' precipitates result in a reduction of hardness values for peak aged condition at 180 and 220 degrees C, respectively.