Effects of Pre-Aging on Bendability of an Asymmetric-Rolled Al-Mg-Si Alloy

Abstract

The effects of pre-aging before natural aging on the bendability of an asymmetric-rolled Al-Mg-Si alloy were investigated. In the specimen without pre-aging, hardness increased with natural aging time due to the formation of nanoscale cluster (nanocluster; Cluster (1)). The suppression of Cluster (1) during natural aging is clearly seen in the pre-aged specimens though the formation of Cluster (2). It was found that tensile properties were not so affected by the types of clusters. Bending test clearly showed that the pre-aging improves the bendability of this alloy. This effectiveness of pre-aging means Cluster (2) well contributes the deformability of this alloy compared with Cluster (1). Such an improvement of bendability is considered to be derived from the structure of nanoclusters and its interactions with the factor of plastically deformation of alloys.