Development of the Gas Induced Semi-Solid Metal Process for Aluminum Die Casting Applications

Abstract

A simple and efficient rheocasting process that has recently been invented is being developed for aluminum die casting applications. The process called Gas Induced Semi-Solid (GISS) utilizes the combination of local rapid heat extraction and agitation achieved by the injection of fine gas bubbles through a graphite diffuser to create semi-solid slurry. In the GISS process, the die casting machine and the process cycle remain little changed from those of conventional die casting. The GISS unit creates a low solid fraction of semi-solid slurry in the ladle during the ladle transfer to the shot sleeve. The semi-solid slurry is then poured directly into the shot sleeve. This paper presents the detailed description of the process. The results of the semi-solid die casting experiments with ADC10 alloy using the GISS process are also reported and discussed.