Influence of powder metallurgical processing on production and properties of rapidly solidified Al–5Cr–2Zr, Al–6·43Cr–1·67Zr, and Al–4Cr–1Fe extrudates

Abstract

Rapidly solidified Al–5Cr–2Zr, Al–6·43Cr–1·67Zr, and Al–4Cr–1Fe alloy powders were processed using cold compaction and hot extrusion. It was found that the iron containing alloy was more easily extruded than the zirconium containing alloys, and this was attributed to phase transformations occurring during deformation of the latter. By obtaining extrudates in the form of rectangular bars, mechanical properties could be studied for both the transverse and the longitudinal directions. Compared with the longitudinal direction, no significant decrease of strength was detected in the transverse direction for any of the alloys, whereas significant decreases of ductility were recorded, especially for Al–6·43Cr–1·67Zr alloy. Fracture was observed to occur along primary powder particle boundaries. The relationship between microstructure and mechanical properties was also investigated. Compared with the addition of iron, it was found that additions of zirconium are more beneficial in that they promote formation of fine intermetallic phases. In addition, between the Al–Cr–Zr alloys, a reduction of chromium content yields a more homogenous and fine microstructure, which combined with the beneficial effects of increased additions of zirconium results in superior properties.

MST/1118