Effects of rolling rate on microstructure and mechanical properties of Mg sheets

Abstract

Abstract This study investigates the effects of rolling rate on the microstructure and mechanical properties of magnesium alloy sheets. AZ31 plates were rolled at speeds of 5, 10, 20 and 30 r · min−1 at room temperature. Optical microscopy, micro-hardness testing, and X-ray diffraction were carried out to characterize the material microstructure. Results show that the number of twin grains increases as the rolling rate increases. Simultaneously, the micro-hardness of the samples decreases, and the (0 001) basal texture is weakened. These results suggest the use of high rolling speed to practically reduce the formation of unfavorable basal texture in manufacturing magnesium alloy sheets.