Semi-Solid Metal Processing of Aluminum Alloy A390

Hypereutectic aluminum-silicon alloy 390 offers properties akin to a composite material exhibiting outstanding wear characteristics, excellent high temperature strength, a high modulus of elasticity and a low thermal expansion coefficient. These properties make 390 a promising candidate for heavy wear conditions. Liquid casting with 390, however, poses several problems thus making semi-solid processing an attractive alternative. In this study, a motorcycle sprocket was semi-solid metal (SSM) cast with A390. The resulting mechanical behavior and wear resistance was promising for parts that will undergo heavy wear applications. Use of this alloy in semi-solid production should prove to be an attractive alternative for automotive engineers.