Influence of titanium and chromium addition on the microstructure and mechanical properties of squeeze cast Mg–6Al alloy

Abstract

In this study, the effect of titanium and chromium (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4 wt%) on the microstructure, mechanical and wear properties of a magnesium-based alloy (Mg–Al 6 wt%) were investigated. The alloys were produced under a controlled atmosphere by a squeeze-casting process. The results show that the addition of Ti element modified the structure and decreased the grain size. A similar trend is also observed in the alloys containing Cr. The results of hardness, tensile and impact testing indicate that the hardness, tensile and impact strength of Mg–6Al alloy increased by adding Ti up to 0.2 wt% and then is relatively constant with increasing Ti. A similar result is also observed in the alloys containing Cr. The wear rate of Mg–6Al alloy decreased with increasing alloying elements up to 0.2 wt%. Then the wear rate is relatively constant with the addition of more alloying elements. While the friction coefficient value of Mg–6Al alloy gradually increased with increasing Cr, the friction coefficient value of Mg–6Al alloy decreased with increasing Ti up to 0.2 wt%. Then the friction coefficient value is constant with increasing Ti.