Effect of pre-deformation on microstructure and mechanical properties of WE43 magnesium alloy

The effect of cold plastic deformation by multi-directional forging prior to artificial aging treatment on the microstructure and mechanical properties of WE43 alloy was investigated. The results show that the pre-deformation produced high density of dislocations and deformation twins. After peak-aging treatment at 200 °C, the pre-deformation reduced the average size of fine β″ and β′ precipitates and promoted the formation of β1 phase. Additionally, spheroid-shaped precipitates formed at twin boundaries and the deformation twins were thermally stable during the aging treatment. Mechanical properties reveal that the tensile yield and ultimate strength is significantly enhanced from 191±3 MPa to 270±15 MPa and 278±5 MPa to 320±18 MPa, respectively.