Influence of different extrusion processes on mechanical properties of magnesium alloy

AZ31 Mg alloy sheets were processed by the conventional symmetrical extrusion (CSE) and the asymmetric extrusion (ASE). Progressive-asymmetric extrusion (PASE) and severe strain-asymmetric extrusion (SASE) were employed for ASE processes. The texture at near-surface and mid-layer zones of ASE sheets was diverse penetrating the normal direction (ND). This was attributed to an additional asymmetric shear strain deformation during the ASE process. (0002) basal planes of PASE sheets tilt to the shear deformation direction. Meanwhile, the basal texture intensity of PASE sheets has been weakened compared with one in CSE sheets. Grain refinement and tilted weak basal texture obtained by SASE process dramatically enhances the room temperature strength and plasticity of the extruded AZ31 magnesium alloy sheets. The microstructure and mechanical responses were examined and discussed.