Advances in Thixomolding Magnesium Alloys Part II

Thixomolding (1) is a relatively new process in which the metallic slurry is injected into a die cavity tool at semi-solid or liquid temperatures to form near net-shape products from the solid feedstock. As part of on-going research into Thixomolding technology, this study continues the work of a previous study, that concentrated on magnesium alloys AZ91D and AM60B. The test samples were made with high, low and zero percent fraction solid. The test results of the thixomolded samples of the various percent fraction solid are compared to conventional high pressure die casting samples and there is a discussion of the why the Thixomolding process produces superior properties. In addition, a comprehensive corrosion resistance study was completed utilizing uncoated corrosion plates in an salt spray environment (ASTM B117). The study continues to explore the corrosion resistance of test plates that had been surface treated by two different surface finishing technologies; Anomag (2) and Keronite (3). The treated panels where then exposed to a 240 hour salt spray environment. Several of the plates where examined by metallographic analysis and the results are presented.