Impact and energy dissipation characteristics of squeeze and die cast magnesium alloy AM60

Abstract

High-pressure die cast (HPDC) magnesium alloy AM60 is recognized for its versatility in the manufacturing of weight sensitive components of relatively thin cross section. To further expand practical applications of the alloy, squeeze casting has been proposed to allow for thicker castings. In this study, AM60 alloy specimens of 10mm thickness were squeeze cast using a hydraulic press with an applied pressure of 60 MPa. Fracture energies, following a Charpy Impact Testing protocol, of the squeeze cast specimens were characterized in comparison with the HPDC counterparts using both experimental and numerical techniques. The experimental results show the squeeze cast alloy absorbing approximately 46.2% more energy during impact than its HPDC counterpart. Scanning electron microscopy fractography reveals the favourable quasi-cleavage fracture mode of the squeeze cast alloy AM60, relative to the decohesive rupture fracture mode present in the die cast alloy.