Papers by Author: J. Wannasin

Abstract: The effects of rheocasting times on the hot tearing defect in semi-solid die casting of aluminum A201 alloy have been investigated. This study found that no hot cracking formed in the semi-solid A201 alloy parts at a rheocasting time of 10 seconds, implying that the hot tearing suscepability (HTS) index value is zero. Moreover, the HTS index values for all semi-solid casting conditions were lower than those found in conventional casting samples. The microstructure of the as semi-solid casting parts consisting of non-dendritic structures and smaller grain size helped to improve the hot tearing resistance of aluminum A201 alloy. These results support the feasibility of semi-solid die casting of aluminum A201 alloy by using Gas Induced Semi-Solid (GISS) technique.

Abstract: A simple and efficient rheocasting process that has recently been invented is being developed for aluminum die casting applications. The process called Gas Induced Semi-Solid (GISS) utilizes the combination of local rapid heat extraction and agitation achieved by the injection of fine gas bubbles through a graphite diffuser to create semi-solid slurry. In the GISS process, the die casting machine and the process cycle remain little changed from those of conventional die casting. The GISS unit creates a low solid fraction of semi-solid slurry in the ladle during the ladle transfer to the shot sleeve. The semi-solid slurry is then poured directly into the shot sleeve. This paper presents the detailed description of the process. The results of the semi-solid die casting experiments with ADC10 alloy using the GISS process are also reported and discussed.

Abstract: Various processing methods exist for applying agitation to a molten metal during solidification to obtain metal slurries suitable for semi-solid metal processing. . In this paper, a new technique to achieve semi-solid metal structure using agitation during solidification is reported. The technique applies a new medium and means to efficiently create semi-solid metal structures. The results of a systematic study showing the feasibility and the necessary conditions to achieve the structure are discussed.

Abstract: Aluminum-copper alloys offer both high strength and excellent ductility suitable for a number of automotive applications to reduce vehicle weight; however, the alloys are difficult to cast because of their tendency for hot tearing. In this work, semi-solid gravity casting of an aluminum-copper alloy, B206, was conducted in constrained rod casting molds to study the feasibility of using the process to reduce or eliminate hot tearing. To demonstrate the feasibility of gravity casting of the metal slurries, a fluidity test was also conducted. Results show that the hot tearing susceptibility of the aluminum-copper B206 alloy cast in semi-solid state is lower than those cast in liquid state with high superheat temperatures. The grain size of the semi-solid cast Al-Cu samples appears to be finer than those cast in liquid state with high superheat temperatures. In addition, the metal slurries had sufficient fluidity to fill the molds even with low gravity pressures. The results suggest that semi-solid gravity casting is a feasible process to help reduce hot tearing.