Preparation of 2024/3003 gradient materials by semi-continuous casting using double-stream-pouring technique

Abstract

The 2024/3003 aluminum gradient alloys are prepared by semi-continuous casting. The influences of throttle bore diameter of embedded nozzle and temperature of internal melt on composition distribution, macrostructure, hardness are analyzed, and the stability of gradient distribution of composition, macrostructure and hardness along the axial direction of the ingot is also studied. The results show that diffe-rent composition profiles can be achieved by adjusting the processing parameters; the volume fraction of inner alloy in the ingot can be increased by enlarging the throttle bore diameter and elevating the temperature of inner melt; quasi-steady solidification can be realized within 20 s during cast processing, and consistent quality ingot is obtained by controlling the casting speed and liquid height of inner melt.

Keywords

2024/3003 Al alloys / gradient materials / semi-continuous casting