One of the prerequisites for thixoforming processing of alloys is a globular microstructure. This study used a deformation followed by recrystallization methodology in order to determine the minimum deformation and time needed to complete particle globularization of two new aluminum alloys in semi solid state (SSS). The required deformation for a maximum microstructural refinement was also researched. The alloys were cast from aluminum can scraps, adding up to 3.5% Si (Al3,5Si) and the other alloy up to 4% Cu (Al4Cu). The new alloys were rolled with deformations ranging from 5 to 30% and taken to the semisolid state SSS with soaking time ranging from 10 to 60 minutes. The microstructures were characterized by optical microscopy. The results show that the minimum deformation to promote entire globularization is between 5 and 10%. The increase of the total strain refines the microstructure; however, from about 20% of strain, it is necessary to improve the conformation conditioning to prevent the formation of cracks.
Thixoforming; conditioning; aluminum recycling
