Influence of Strain Route Changes on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of CuZn36 Alloy during Cross Channel Extrusion CCE

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of changing the deformation routes of the extrusion process in a cross-shaped die (CCE) on the structure and properties of a CuZn36 alloy (% at.). Samples with dimensions of Ø8 × 36 mm were subjected to extrusion at room temperature according to two variants: straight extrusion in the A route (2-, 4-, 8- and 12-pass) and extrusion with interoperative rotation by 90° in the BC route (2- and 4-pass). The improvement of strength properties was obtained as a result of grain fragmentation in the CCE process. Changes in the microstructure were observed using a light microscope, and mechanical properties were measured in the microhardness test and a static tensile test. The obtained results showed that the mechanical properties of the alloy depend on the number of passes and the material deformation route. This observation was related to the fragmentation of its structure and strengthening, which resulted in changes in its properties. The highest strength was characterized by the material pressed four times with the rotation of 90° (BC route), whose properties were comparable and even slightly better than the material squeezed twelve times without rotation (A route).