Material properties and process assessment in Mg-Al casting alloys using strength—ductility charts

Abstract

The application to Mg-Al casting alloys of property charts similar to the quality index charts used for Al casting alloys is explored. The charts are generated with an analytical method that accounts for the specific features of the deformation behaviour of Mg-based alloys. The effects of aluminium content, solution heat treatment, temper, casting method, porosity, cross sectional thickness and low temperature ageing on the mechanical performance of sand and die castings are assessed using data from the literature. The charts are extended to include the energy absorption of smooth bars. Limitations of the analytical charts are discussed.

Keywords:

• Mg-Al casting alloys
• quality index
• tensile ductility
• tensile strength
• die castings
• sand castings