Enhanced mechanical property of AZ31B magnesium alloy processed by multi-directional forging method

AZ31B alloy was prepared with multi-directional forging (MDF) and hot extrusion methods. The tensile mechanical properties of the alloy processed with the two methods were investigated. It showed that the MDFed alloy exhibited enhanced mechanical properties as compared with the extruded method. The tensile yielding strength (TYS), ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and elongation to failure were 96 MPa, 357 MPa and 27%, respectively. Based on the observation of the microstructural evolution during tensile process, the relationship between microstructure and mechanical properties was discussed. The modification of microstructure and texture during the forging process was regarded to be responsible for the enhanced mechanical properties.