Development of a magnesium alloy with good casting characteristics on the basis of Mg–Al–Ca–Mn system, having Mg–Al2Ca structure

Application of calcium as alloying element for magnesium alloys has been considered according to literature data. Mg–7%Al–4%Ca–0.5%Mn casting alloy was offered, which possesses the low propensity to the hot brittleness and good castability. The alloy has the moderate strength (σu = 150 MPa) and the satisfactory percentage elongation (δ = 3%). It is shown, that calcium-containing alloys smelting of Mg–Al–Ca–Mn system is preferable with the application of low-chloride flux FL10 (20%MgCl2; 29%KCl; 12%BaCl2; 23%CaF2; 15%MgF2; 1%B2O3). The alloy smelting in the atmosphere of argon and SF6 mixture results in the increased shelling and waste of calcium. The heat treatment is offered for the developed alloy, which is directed to the Al2Ca phase spheroidizing. The developed magnesium alloy, alloyed with calcium, is perspective for the industry production of low-cost moulding.