Automatic Texture Alignment by Optimization Method.

Microstructure analysis via electron backscatter diffraction has become an indispensable tool in materials science and engineering. In order to interpret or predict the anisotropy in crystalline materials, the texture is assessed, e.g. via pole figure diagrams. To ensure a correct characterization, it is crucial to align the measured sample axes as closely as possible with the manufacturing process directions. However, deviations are inevitable due to sample preparation and manual measurement setup. Postprocessing is mostly done manually, which is tedious and operator-dependent. In this work, it is shown that the deviation can be calculated using the contour of the crystal orientations. This can also be utilized to define the axis symmetry of pole figure diagrams through an objective function, allowing for symmetric alignment by minimization. Experimental textures of extruded profiles and synthetically generated textures were used to demonstrate the general applicability of the method. It has proven to work excellently for deviations of up to 5∘, which are typical for careful manual sample preparation and mounting. While the performance of the algorithm is reduced with increasing misalignment, good results have also been obtained for deviations up to 15∘.

Investigations of High-Strength Mg-Al-Ca-Mn Alloys with a Broad Range of Ca+Al Contents.

The low mass and high specific stiffness of Mg alloys make them particularly interesting as means of transportation. Due to further desirable properties, such as good machinability and excellent castability, Mg alloys have gained acceptance as castings in high-volume applications, such as gearbox housings and automotive steering wheels. However, in forming processes, such as extrusion and forging, Mg alloys find little to no industrial use at the moment. The reasons for this are their poor formability, which is reflected in limited processing speeds and low ductility, and their modest mechanical performance, compared to competing materials, such as Al alloys and high-strength steels. Much research is being conducted worldwide on high-strength Mg alloys, most of which rely on high levels of rare earths, making these materials both ecologically and economically questionable. Here, it is shown that high yield strengths (>300 MPa) can be achieved in the Mg-Al-Ca system while maintaining good ductility, using only low-cost elements. The investigations have shown that these properties can be adjusted over broad alloy compositions, which greatly simplifies both the processing and recyclability.

Lean Wrought Magnesium Alloys.

Lean magnesium alloys are considered attractive candidates for easy and economical hot forming. Such wrought alloys, defined here as materials with a maximum alloying content of one atomic or two weight percent, are known to achieve attractive mechanical properties despite their low alloy content. The good mechanical properties and the considerable hardening potential, combined with the ease of processing, make them attractive for manufacturers and users alike. This results in potential uses in a wide range of applications, from rolled or extruded components to temporary biomedical implants. The characteristic behavior of these alloys and the optimal use of suitable alloying elements are discussed and illustrated exemplarily.

Mg-Alloys for Forging Applications-A Review.

Interest in magnesium alloys and their applications has risen in recent years. This trend is mainly evident in casting applications, but wrought alloys are also increasingly coming into focus. Among the most common forming processes, forging is a promising candidate for the industrial production of magnesium wrought products. This review is intended to give a general introduction into the forging of magnesium alloys and to help in the practical realization of forged products. The basics of magnesium forging practice are described and possible problems as well as material properties are discussed. Several alloy systems containing aluminum, zinc or rare earth elements as well as biodegradable alloys are evaluated. Overall, the focus of the review is on the process control and processing parameters, from stock material to finished parts. A discussion of the mechanical properties is included. These data have been comprehensively reviewed and are listed for a variety of magnesium forging alloys.