Evolution Behavior of the Surface Oxide Film of Al Alloy Scraps in the Melt

Abstract

The oxide film on the scrap surface is one of the primary sources of oxide inclusions in the aluminum melt. Understanding the evolution of the oxide films in the aluminum melt is an important step for developing efficient recycling technologies and controlling the quality of the product. In the present study, we studied the evolution behavior of the oxide film in the aluminum melt. The oxide films were introduced via aluminum alloy scraps into the melt, and the micro-morphology and composition of the oxide film were analyzed by scanning electron microscope and energy spectrum. Results show that the oxide film on the surface of 1235 alloy foil, A356 alloy turning, and 5083 alloy scalping were broken into small flake oxide film and then transformed into minor granular oxide when the scraps were charged into commercial purity aluminum melt. However, in aluminum alloy melt containing magnesium, the oxide film remained an intact sheet shape up to a certain melt dwelling time.