Effect of use of low-frequency electromagnetic field on the production and properties of direct chill cast 6060 aluminum alloy

Abstract

n this study, the effect of low frequency electromagnetic fields during the vertical semi-continuous casting process of 6060 aluminum alloy billets was investigated. The results were compared with those obtained by conventional semi-continuous casting. Based on comparative analysis of the results, it was found that casting in a low frequency electromagnetic field offers many advantages, such as smooth surface of the billets, smaller grain size in the cross section, finer microstructure and a uniform distribution of inter-metallic phases in the alloy, with the same or even slightly better mechanical properties. For these reasons, the employment of this casting process is considered an option for obtaining economic savings.