The effect of alternative low frequency electromagnetic field on the solidification microstructure and mechanical properties of ZK60 alloys

The effect of alternative low frequency electromagnetic field (ALFEF) on ZK60 alloys during solidification process was investigated. The grains were refined and more uniformly distributed, second phase precipitates at grain boundaries were reduced and had finer eutectic structure, provided that the ALFEF was applied to ZK60 alloys during the solidification process. Grain refinement of ZK60 alloys is due to the electromagnetic force under the ALFEF. Stirring helps crystallization melt and dendritic crystal break. In comparison with no electromagnetic condition, the tensile strength and elongation of ZK60 alloys under the ALFEF increase by 9.5% and 72.5%, respectively. Based on these results, this paper has further investigated the microstructure and mechanical properties of alloys under extrusion, which showed that finer and more uniform microstructure and improved mechanical properties were obtained.

► Microstructure of ZK60 Mg alloy effected by ALFEF has been studied.
► Microstructure has been refined and eutectic structure been eliminated by ALFEF.
► High mechanical property alloy has been obtained by ALFEF.
► Fine grains of extrusion alloy have been obtained by ALFEF.
► The mechanical properties of extrusion alloy have been improved by ALFEF.