Abstract
Energy saving and improving product performance are long-term concerns in extrusion process. Therefore, this paper proposes a novel extrusion process called alternate extrusion (AE). The proposed process uses split punches alternately instead of the overall structure to apply the downward load, but receives an unexpected load-saving and grain refinement effect. Experimental and finite element method (FEM) methods were used to investigate the effects of different extrusion ratios on microstructure and mechanical properties. Results indicate that load value is significantly reduced, grain size is considerably refined, and tensile strength and elongation of material are improved after AE processing. The fractography shows that the fracture mode of AZ31 magnesium alloy changes from brittle to ductile. Although the actual extrusion ratio decreases in AE process, additional shear forces produced by different punch-alternating loads at the interface improve microstructure and mechanical properties. Therefore, AE can achieve grain refinement and load saving and improve strength and plasticity of magnesium alloys.
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Li, F., Jiang, H.W., Chen, Q. et al. New extrusion method for reducing load and refining grains for magnesium alloy. Int J Adv Manuf Technol 90, 73–79 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00170-016-9323-8
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00170-016-9323-8