Semisolid processing of metallic materials

Abstract

Semisolid processing involves forming metallic alloys between the solidus and the liquidus. For the process to operate, the microstructure must consist of solid spheroids in the liquid matrix, rather than dendrites. The material then flows when it is sheared but thickens again when allowed to stand, i.e. it behaves thixotropically. This type of behaviour was first discovered by Flemings and co-workers in the 1970s and is utilised in a family of processes, some now applied commercially. Here, the current status of semisolid processing, both technologically and from a research point of view, will be reviewed.

Keywords

SEMISOLID PROCESSING THIXOFORMING RHEOFORMING THIXOCASTING THIXOFORGING

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