Microstructure evolution of ZA72 magnesium alloy during partial remelting

摘要

The application of some semi-solid forming magnesium alloys is restricted due to their weak mechanical properties. To improve the mechanical properties, it is necessary to research the regularity and theory of semi-solid microstructure evolution of the alloy. In this study, microstructure evolution of ZA72 alloy during the partial remelting, and the effect of holding temperature and holding time on the semi-solid microstructure evolution of ZA72 magnesium alloy were investigated by means of OM, SEM and EDS analysis. The results indicate that the microstructure with small and spheroidal semi-solid particles which are available for thixo-forming can be obtained using proper heating parameters. After being isothermally treated at between 580 and 610 ℃ for 30 min, the equivalent size and shape factor of primary solid phase of ZA72 alloy decrease gradually, while the liquid volume fraction increases. When isothermally treated at 600 ℃ and held for different times from 15 to 60 min, with the increase of holding time, the equivalent size of primary particles decreases at first and then increases gradually; while the shape factor decreases gradually. The best heat treatment parameters in this experiment are to hold at 610 ℃ for 30 min. Compared with as-cast ZA72 alloy, the sizes of the eutectic phase and second α-Mg phase obtained in semi-solid state are smaller due to the higher solidification rate and the higher under-cooling degree than as-cast state. These decrease the fracture probability during tensile stress and improve the properties of the ZA72 alloy by semi-solid forming.