Influence of the Pouring Temperature on the Castability and Microstructure of Elektron 21 and QE22 Magnesium Casting Alloys

Magnesium alloys are widely used in aerospace and automotive industry due to their low density, good mechanical properties and good castability. The paper presents results of the castability tests and microstructural investigations on two unmodified magnesium casting alloys, Elektron 21 and QE22. Spirals for the castability test were poured from three temperatures: 755°C, 800°C and 835°C. Volume fraction of eutectic regions and grain size in both alloys were quantitatively evaluated. Castability increased with increasing pouring temperature. Quantity of eutectics and grain size did not show straight correlation with pouring temperature.