Surface modification of Al–12.6Si alloy by high current pulsed electron beam

• Published in: Applied surface science 2012-01, Vol.258 (6), p.2052-2056
• Main Authors: Hao, Y., Gao, B., Tu, G.F., Cao, H., Hao, S.Z., Dong, C.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aluminum; Aluminum base alloys; Al–12.6Si alloy; Electron beams; High current; High current pulsed electron beam; Intermetallic compounds; Remelted layer; Scanning electron microscopy; Solid solutions; Solution strengthening; Strengthening; Supersaturated solid solution; Wear resistance
• ISSN: 0169-4332; 1873-5584
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apsusc.2011.04.104

► The microstructure and wear property of HCPEB-treated Al–12.6Si alloy are first researched. ► The eutectic structure disappears and a supersaturated solid solution of Al forms in remelted layer. ► Relative wear resistance of HCPEB-treated sample surface is improved by a factor of 2.5. The paper investigates the microstructure and property modifications of Al–12.6Si alloy induced by high current pulsed electron beam (HCPEB) treatment. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) results show a fine and equiaxed grain structure of several micrometers is obtained on the top surface of the melted layer. Underneath the top surface, a remelted layer with about 10μm thickness is obtained and a supersaturated solid solution of Al is formed in the remelted layer. XRD analysis shows that the relative strength of diffraction peaks of Al (111) and Si (111) crystal planes is increased after HCPEB treatment. As a result, relative wear resistance of HCPEB-treated sample is significantly improved by a factor of 2.5 due to fine grain strengthening and solid solution strengthening. Therefore, the HCPEB treatment has a good application future in treating Al–Si alloys.