Experimental study of squeeze casting of ZK60 magnesium alloy

Squeeze casting process is the result of search for materials with improved mechanical properties and new casting processes. Desirable features of both casting and forging are combined in this hybrid method. A study on the effect of squeeze casting parameters on the microstructure and mechanical properties of ZK60 Mg alloy was conducted by means of techniques such as Metallographic Microscope (MM), Brinell Hardness Tester (BHT), and standard mechanical tester. The parameters studied include squeeze casting pressure, melt temperature and die preheating temperature. It was found that a squeeze casting pressure of 120 MPa and a melt and die preheating temperature of 690 degrees C and 300 degrees C respectively gave a good combination of tensile and hardness properties in ZK60 Mg alloy. This was primarily due to effective die filling, microstructural refinement and good heat transfer between the molten metal and the mould.