Modeling of compocasting process and fabrication of AZ91D magnesium alloy matrix composites

Stirring conditions on the reduction of pores in the composites fabricated by compocasting process were investigated by the visualized modeling. The distance between stirring blade and liquid surface, the rotational speed of blade and the viscosity of matrix affect the entrapping of gas. Then, Al18B4O33 particle- and whisker-reinforced AZ91D (Mg-9%Al-1%Zn) magnesium alloy matrix composites were fabricated by the compocasting under the condition acquiring from the visualized modeling experiment. The composites have high strength and few pores. The refining of primary crystal and homogenous microstructure were acquired by using whisker as the reinforcement. The reinforcement in the composites fabricated under the condition of 33% in fraction of solid distributed uniformly. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.