Microstructure and mechanical properties of Al–1Mn and Al–10Si alloy circular clad ingot prepared by direct chill casting

An innovative direct chill casting process to prepare Al–10 wt%Si and Al–1 wt%Mn alloy circular clad ingots has been developed in the present study. The experimental casting parameters were determined by theoretical analysis, numerical simulation and experimental processes. The interface of clad ingots was investigated by methods of metallographic examination, electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results showed that excellent metallurgical bonding of two different aluminum alloys could be achieved by direct chill casting. The Al–1Mn alloy which was poured into the mold earlier served as the substrate for heterogeneous nucleation of Al–10Si alloy. Because of diffusion of Si and Mn elements, a diffusion layer with a thickness of about 40 μm on average between the Al–10Si and Al–1Mn alloys could be obtained. The tensile strength of the clad ingot was 106.8 MPa and the fractured position was located in the Al–1Mn alloy side, indicating the strength of the interfacial region is higher than that of Al–1Mn alloy.