Effect of Solid Fraction on Microstructure and Casting Faults of AZ91D Alloys in New Type Semi-Solid Injection Process

Abstract

We have developed new type semi-solid injection process, that is, runner-less injection process. In order to investigate the effects of solid fraction on microstructure and casting defects of AZ91D in new type semi solid injection process, semi-solid forming testing machine which has the same system as a runner-less injection machine has been made on an experimental basis. Its temperature controlling system has been established to obtain the homogeneous solid-liquid coexisted state in its injection cylinder. AZ91D billets are injected into a permanent mold by this machine in the semi-solid state. A shearing in the part of nozzle of injection cylinder is the most important to reveal thixotropic property of alloy slurry in semi solid forming process by injection machine. So it needs controlling of solid fraction to affect thixotropic property. In order to decrease casting defects and hold homogeneous structure, solid fraction more over 50% is needed. But when the solid fraction increases more than 50%, primary solid particles grow coarser, and then controlling method is required to suppress coarsening. In the case of less than 50% of solid fraction, liquid part preferentially fills inside the permanent mold and alloy slurry continue to fill the mold behind alloy liquid. Then large casting defects form at the boundary of both flows.