Structure and Properties of Al-0.6%Zr-0.4%Fe-0.4%Si (wt.%) Wire Alloy Manufactured by Electromagnetic Casting

Abstract

The experimental Al-0.6%Zr-0.4%Fe-0.4%Si alloy has been manufactured by using the method of electromagnetic casting. It is shown that Zr is completely dissolved in the aluminum solid solution (Al) and iron is fully included in the Al8Fe2Si phase. The fine microstructure of the as-cast rod implies a high deformation plasticity, which has been experimentally confirmed during wire production. The cold-rolled wire has an ultimate tensile strength (UTS) ~ 260 MPa, and subsequent annealing at 400°C for 3 h slightly reduces the strength, which is associated with the stabilizing effect of the L12 (Al3Zr) phase nanoparticles formed during annealing. Annealing also leads to a significant increase in the specific conductivity, the value of which reaches 57.0 IACS. Drawing of the annealed rolled wire leads to significant strengthening. Annealing at 400°C leads to a marked strength reduction, which, however, remains high enough for conductive alloys (UTS higher than 200 MPa).