Enhanced mechanical properties of AZ31 magnesium alloy sheets by continuous bending process after V-bending

Abstract

The effects of V-bending process, continuous bending process and combination process on the microstructure and mechanical properties and formability of an AZ31 magnesium alloy sheet were investigated. The experimental results showed that no twins were found in the microstructure of all samples after processes due to the fine grain. The V-bending and continuous bending processes were proved to be an effective approach to modify the mechanical properties and formability. While the samples after the combination process exhibited better mechanical properties and formability than the single processed sample. The yield strength significantly decreased with the value of 100MPa and the fracture elongation enhanced to 18.3% at room temperature. The Erichsen value was 5.0mm which was significantly increased by 117% compared with as-received sample. The superior formability of combination processed samples was mainly attributed to the smaller r-value and n-value.