Análisis cuantitativo y caracterización morfológica de la aleación 6063. Diferencias microestructurales y mecánicas entre la superficie y el núcleo de barras cilíndricas de colada semicontinua

Abstract

In the present work it has been studied the effect of microstructure on tensile properties of semi-continuously cast round billets manufactured in the industrial 6063 alloy either in the as cast state or after heat treatment. Relevant microstructural features were characterized by quantitative metallographic techniques, both in the periphery and centre of billets, and contrasted against the measured tensile properties at room temperature. Special attention in the study was paid to the way in which chemical non-homogeneities could be minimized. For such purpose the refinement and shape modification of second phase particles formed during solidification, thereafter transformed during the subsequent industrial heat treatment, were assessed. It was observed that the morphology of iron-rich intermetallic compounds developed during solidification was highly influenced by the solidification rate as seen in the billet cross section. It was also verified that the optimal elongation corresponded to the central portion of the billet once industrially homogenized.