Thixotropy Lab Report

Simulation of semisolid process of Aluminum alloys at thixo-temperatures

M.V. Kishore 1, Dr. D. Hanumantha Rao 2, Dr. M. Manzoor Hussain 3

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Matrusri Engineering College, Saidabad, Hyderabad

2 Principal, Matrusri Engineering College, Saidabad, Hyderabad

3 Principal, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Hyderabad College of Engineering, Sultanpur

ABSTRACT

Semisolid metal processing is relatively a new technology for production of near net shaped components. This process is carried out at a temperature range between its liquids and solidus temperature. At thixo-temperatures, the metal exists as a mixture of solid and liquid phases in the slurry form. Thixotropy is a time-dependent shear thinning property where the metal is thick at static conditions but will flow when subjected to shear stress. The present research work focuses in establishing a pattern between the initial temperature of the billet and applied loads in the freezing range. The simulation of the process was carried out using finite element application software. The aspect of under filling during the process is also studied.

Keywords: Semi solid metal process, thixotropy, aluminum alloy, under fill

I. INTRODUCTION

Some of

This process is also known as thixoforming or thixocasting depending on the initial condition of the billet and process adopted. The process combines a number of advantages of casting and forging. Compared to casting from the liquid state SSMP provides a more stable filling front, places lower thermal loads on the metal dies and less shrinkage. Compared to forging it permits the filling of more complicated shapes and thinner sections. SSMP allows production of porosity free components having excellent mechanical performance. The SSMP process allows producing parts with tight tolerances and low shrinkage