The Effect Of Homogenization Conditions On The Structure And Properties Of 6082 Alloy Billets

Abstract The paper presents the results of laboratory homogenization investigations of the 6082 grade alloys, differing in Mg and Si content. At the first stage, the microstructure of alloys was analysed after homogenization finished with water quenching. SEM/EDS investigations and DSC tests were applied to evaluate the dissolution of the Mg 2 Si particles and concentration of the main alloying additions in the grains interiors, depending on soaking conditions. In the case of alloy with lower Mg and Si content, homogenization the temperature of 535ºC for 8h is sufficient for significant Mg 2 Si particles dissolution. For the alloy with higher Mg and Si content, after homogenization the temperature of 550ºC for 8h, the amount of undissolved Mg 2 Si particles decreases visibly, compared to homogenization at 535ºC for 8h. However, an unfavourable tendency of dispersoids growth is observed and these soaking conditions are not found to be recommended. At the second research stage, the influence of homogenization cooling rate on the size and distribution of the Mg 2 Si particles observed in the alloys microstructure was analysed. The ability of the Mg 2 Si particles, precipitated during various homogenization coolings, to rapid dissolution was estimated. For this purpose, the hardness after solution heat treatment with short annealing and ageing was determined and the DSC tests were performed. It was found, that cooling after homogenization at 315ºC/h is sufficient for precipitation of fine Mg 2 Si particles, which dissolve during subsequent rapid heating. Cooling at 40ºC/h, causes precipitation of Mg 2 Si phase in the form of large particles, unable for further fast dissolution.