Effect of the cyclic extrusion and compression processing on microstructure and mechanical properties of as-extruded ZK60 magnesium alloy

Abstract

The effects of cyclic extrusion and compression (CEC) processing on the microstructure and mechanical properties of ZK60 Mg alloy were investigated at room temperature. ZK60 alloy was dramatically refined by CEC processing at 350°C. In addition, the initial fiber texture became disintegrated and changed into a (101̄3}(303̄2) + {101̄1}(15̄43) texture. Due to microstructure refining and texture variation, the compressive yield stress of ZK60 alloy increased remarkably while the tensile yield stress decreased slightly. As a result, the intensity of strength-differential effect (SDE) of ZK60 alloy was decreased noticeably. The ductility of ZK60 alloy also enhanced, especially under compression test condition. © 2008 The Japan Institute of Metals.