Microstructure and strengthening model of Al-3%Mg alloy in a heat treated state subjected to ECAP process

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to investigate the microstructure evolution of a heat treated Al-3%Mg aluminium alloy subjected to the ECAP (equal channel angular pressing process). Design/methodology/approach: Commercial Al-3%Mg alloy subjected to the solution treatment followed by an artificial aging was subjected to the 6 ECAP passes using a processing route Bc. Then the microstructure investigations using a light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were carried out. Additionally the XRD technique was used to calculate lattice micro strain and dislocation density. Findings: The experimental results showed that the obtained microstructure is refined by mutual interactions of shear and microshear bands. The TEM investigation revealed typical for deformed aluminium alloys structure constituents such as dislocation-free grains, nonequilibrium grain boundaries, dislocation cell and (sub)grain structures. Research limitations/implications: The presented investigation results were carried out on samples, not on final products. Practical implications: Current research is moving towards to develop high strength material having a ultra-fine grained microstructure and increased mechanical strength. Originality/value: The paper focuses on the microstructure characterization of ECAP processed Al-3%Mg aluminium alloy. The relationship between the obtained microstructure and its contribution to the Yield strength is investigated.