Effects of sample thickness on microstructures and mechanical properties of A357 alloy

Abstract

The effects of sample thickness on the density, microstructures and mechanical properties of as cast Al alloy were investigated. Microstructures were observed with a scanning electron microscope. Mechanical properties were studied at room temperature. The results show that the sample thickness has minor influence on the relative density of Al alloy. The obtained relative density up to ～99·24% was confirmed that the vacuum counter–pressure casting has the excellent solidification mechanism. The microstructures were refined and the secondary dendrite arm spacing was decreased with the decrease in sample thickness, and the ultimate tensile strength, yield strength and elongation were improved. The ultimate tensile strength and elongation could be related to their secondary dendrite arm spacing using linear equations. With the increase in sample thickness, the quasi-cleavage fractures were increased and the number of dimples got an evident reduction in fracture surfaces.