Optimization of Pouring Temperatures and Stirrer Speed Parameters on a Semi-Solid Slurry of ADC12 Al Alloy Prepared by Mechanical Stirring

Abstract

This paper presents an experimental design approach for the optimization process parameters for the aluminum solid alloy casting of ADC12 alloys. To achieve this goal, the pouring temperatures and stirring speed are selected and two levels of this parameter are considered. Design of expert (DOE) of tests was used for experimental design and analysis of results. The aluminum ADC12 slurry is stirred by a mechanical stirrer (round rods stirrer models) with a variation of speed 250, 300, 350 rpm for 20 seconds. Furthermore, the aluminum slurry of ADC12 is poured on a metal mold with a temperature of 620 °C, 600 °C, and 580 °C. The microstructure characteristics were examined by direct observation using optical microscopy, secondary α-Al phase dendrite arm spacing and shape factor were identified. The mechanical properties were investigated by the hardness test and tensile test. The mechanical properties and microstructure of aluminum alloys ADC12 made with semi-solid rheocasting casting technology using several parameters pouring temperature and stirring speed have been studied, and the results obtained can be synergized as follows. ADC12 aluminum alloy slurry preparation using a round rod mechanical stirrer on semi-solid casting can improve mechanical properties. Low pouring temperature and high stirring speed are reliable techniques for producing the right mechanical and microstructure properties for a semi-solid casting process (Rheo casting). The pouring temperature and stirring speed are recommended to produce optimal mechanical properties and the round microstructure is 580 °C and 350 rpm.