Microstructure and mechanical properties of the extruded Mg-alloys AZ31, AZ61, AZ80

Abstract

Abstract In order to obtain optimum lightweight constructions in the automobile and aircraft industry, it is important to consider the use of extruded magnesium sections. A lot of the recent research has dealt with the extrusion of AZ31. These extrudates often miss the requirements of the automobile or aircraft industry for mechanical properties. A possible solution might be an increase in the aluminum content. Therefore, this paper deals with the extrusion of AZ31, AZ61 and AZ80 and the effect of the aluminum on the extrusion process as well as on microstructure and the mechanical properties of the extrudates. Whereas the aluminum content does not have a significant influence on the texture of the extrudates, the grain size and structure and, thereby, the mechanical properties can be improved by adding more aluminum to the Mg wrought alloys.