Abstract:
The improvement of mechanical properties of heat-treated (T6) Aluminium 6063
alloy is caused due to hindrance of the dislocation line by the precipitates which is
formed during the heat treatment process. The perception of the inter-relation
between microstructural variations and mechanical properties with process
parameters is essential, as it facilitates the optimization of the processing routes of
the industry to be profitable. Several combinations regarding the relationship
between properties and process parameters developed in previous studies without
considering the precipitate size distributions. The current research focuses on finding
the influence of age hardening process parameters on the precipitate size distribution
and its effect on the hardness of the final product.
Prepared samples were solution treated and quenched in water, followed by aging
treatments for different periods. The Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)/ Energy
Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) analysis of precipitates was used to identify the FeSi-rich
and Fe-Si-Mg-rich precipitates/β phase in the matrix (α phase). Further
analysis of precipitates was done through IMAGE J software and MS EXCEL. The
change of precipitate size distribution with different soaking times and its effect on
the hardness of the Alloy was studied. A significant decrease in hardness was
witnessed when the particles coarsen above 1.5 µm, for the aging time beyond 270
min at 190
o
C.
Citation:
Dilrukshi , L.W.U.R. (2021). Study the influence of precipitate size distribution on hardness of aluminium 6063 alloy under constant aging temperature [Master's theses, University of Moratuwa]. Institutional Repository University of Moratuwa. http://dl.lib.uom.lk/handle/123/22495