Dynamic strain aging of a commercial Al–Mg–Si–Cu alloy during equal channel angular extrusion process

In this research, the occurrence of dynamic strain aging (DSA) phenomenon during equal channel angular extrusion (ECAE) of a commercial air cooled Al–Mg–Si–Cu alloy is investigated. In order to detect the negative strain rate sensitivity behaviour associated with DSA, samples were ECAE-ed at various temperatures and strain rates. Subsequently, the extruded billets were subjected to mechanical and physical tests and it was found that at a certain ECAE temperature range there is a critical strain rate above which DSA occurs. The implication of the results to strengthening of dilute solid solutions is discussed.