Effect of mechanical alloying on the microstructure and properties of Al–Sn–Mg alloy

Aluminum–tin–magnesium alloys have emerged as one of the most effective alloying compositions for enhanced sinterability. However, to-date the effect of mechanical modification of powders on the phase development, sintering and properties of these alloys has not been the subject of appropriate scientific attention. The present paper therefore discusses the influence of mechanical alloying of Al–8Sn–5Mg elemental powders on the microstructure and properties of the sintered product. Sintered mechanically alloyed products were found to be harder and denser than sintered products using un-milled powder. The initial green density was also found to play a significant role in the phase content of the sintered products made from mechanically alloyed powder.

► Effect of mechanical activation on sintering and properties of Al–Sn–Mg alloys were studied.
► Mechanical activation increases hardness and density of the sintered products.
► Green density affects relative amounts of phases following sintering of mechanically activated powder.
► High green density results in higher final sintered density and hardness.