Scanning electron microscopic study of precipitation during aging of cast aluminium alloy-354

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to study evolution of precipitation during aging at different temperatures in cast aluminium alloy-354 grade. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) is used to examine these precipitates. Purpose of applying this technique of microscopic analysis was mainly to investigate the distribution, size and density of hardening precipitates as a function of aging temperature. The heat treatment of alloy comprises of, Solutionizing, quenching and aging. Tensile testing is carried out after aging at different temperatures and the resulting fractured piece is used for microscope analysis. The SEM images are used to compare precipitation at different aging temperatures. Tensile test results are generated after aging at different temperatures. The mechanical properties of the material are correlated with microstructure.