Industrial Applications for Aluminum Semi-Solid Castings

Abstract

The goal of this paper is to examine industrial applications for semi-solid castings, and to develop strategies necessary for the wider commercialization of the semi-solid casting process. The performance and production techniques of semi-solid castings are reviewed, with the goal of identifying commercial niches where semi-solid castings can provide clear benefits over other casting process. A comparison of mechanical properties between semi-solid castings and other casting processes is presented. In addition, this paper provides an evaluation of the features of the optimal semi-solid casting processes, examines the characteristics of components that would benefit for production by semi-solid casting and describe the types of quality systems that casters need to have in place to make these types of castings. Cost analyses are presented suggesting that rheocasting can complete well with other casting processes.