Thermomechanical treatment of A380 aluminum alloy for globular thixo feedstock

The main aim of this paper is to present and evaluate thermomechanical treatment for semi-solid feedstock production of A380 (AlSi₉Cu₃(Fe)) aluminum alloy. Equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) is used to heavily deform and refine as cast dendritic microstructure with needle like eutectic appearance. The deformed microstructure is easily changed to globular microstructure by recovery and recrystallization mechanisms during heating at the semi-solid temperature range which is a crucial factor for quality semi-solid feedstock preparation. The microstructural evolutions investigations during semi-solid heating at different holding times is carried out utilizing optical microscope and scanning electron microscope accompanied by energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. Homogeneous distribution of the silicon particles and intermetallic compounds around globular primary aluminum phase is observed. The used approach is appropriate and seems highly promising for preparation of the quality semi-solid feedstock.