Venting Systems in Semi-Solid Processing of Aluminium

Abstract

In the automotive industry, casting products produced by high pressure die casting are essential. Due to the higher mechanical demands on these castings, the technological requirements of the process are also increasing. Therefore, the control of the microstructure and the development of defects play a major role. High pressure die casting parts made of aluminium usually contain gas porosity due to gas compression during the filling process of the cavity and the intensification during solidification. The use of semi-solid casting thus opens new doors to fulfil promising future demands. In this study, the venting system was adapted to the RheometalTM process of aluminium and designed in the form of gaps, thus ensuring better venting. Subsequently, the results obtained were compared with casting process simulations to highlight possible differences.