Improved Recrystallization Resistance and Welding Properties of Cold-Rolled Al-Mg Alloy Sheets by Microalloying with Sc and Zr

Abstract

The effects of Sc and Zr element on the recrystallization behavior and microstructure evolution of Al-Mg alloy had been researched in this paper, and meanwhile, the microstructure and mechanical properties of the friction stir welding joints were also analyzed. The results show that the recrystallization and grain growth behavior of Al-Mg-Sc-Zr alloy can be inhibited effectively by microalloying with Sc and Zr. Compared with Al-Mg and Al-Mg-Zr alloys, the recrystallization start temperature and finish temperature of Al-Mg-Sc-Zr alloy increase significantly, and the strength of alloy sheet which subjected to stabilizing annealing is increased by more than 50MPa. Moreover, the recrystallization softening effect of the welded joints microstructure, which caused by the welding temperature field and welding heat input, can be weaken by microalloying with Sc and Zr, the width of recrystallization zone is reduced, the microstructure and properties of the welded joints are improved. The friction stir welding coefficients of Al-Mg-Sc-Zr alloy increases to 86.9%.