Press quenching of aluminium alloys

Abstract

The literature concerning press quenching is reviewed and the relevant precipitation kinetics are presented. Such kinetics may be presented on either continuous cooling curve or time–temperature–property diagrams. The homogenisation and subsequent reheating necessary are discussed in terms of microstructure and composition. Thermal considerations include heat transfer occurring both during the extrusion process and cooling after leaving the die. The interaction of extrudability and press quenching is discussed and it is shown that the ultimate solution must be one of compromise. The press effect is shown to be important and some results concerning the press quenching of 2000 series alloys are presented.

MST/742