Process technology

Abstract

Thixoforming is a hybrid process between high-pressure die casting of a liquid alloy and conventional forging of a solid alloy. It is seen as a premium technology for manufacturing net-shape components from a variety of alloys ranging from low-melting-temperature aluminum and magnesium to steel and Co-base alloys. The use of coarse particulates and powders enables thixoforming of composites with a semisolid metal matrix. To successfully compete with well-established conventional technologies of mass-scale production, an increase in properties of net-shape components should offset the extra manufacturing efforts required. It is believed that this goal could better be achieved through development of novel alloys that would take advantage of the unique processing conditions existing during thixoforming. ~AM&P