Quality index chart for different alloys and temperatures: a case study on aluminium die-casting alloys

Abstract

The possibility of developing an analytical quality index chart for applications above room temperature valid for different alloys is explored. The testing temperature and the chemical composition of the material are incorporated into the analysis through their respective effects on the material's strain hardening rate and yield strength. The resulting quality index chart has been used to compare the performance at room temperature, 100°C and 200°C of 16 experimental high-pressure die-cast aluminium alloys in terms of quality index, yield strength and tensile ductility. The best performance at 200°C is observed in alloys with high content of Mg or Cu and Mg and, depending on the Fe and Si content, Mn or Sr. The limitations of the approach are discussed.