Analysis of Cast Aluminium-Zinc Alloy Surface Fatigue Crack Formation Growth Characteristics

Utilizing a scanning electron microscope, research was conducted on the formation of fatigue microcracks in a cast AF620 alloy. The results of fatigue microcrack propagation under escalating levels of stress indicate that the interdendritic or grain boundaries of Al grains are crucial for microcrack propagation. In Al78Zn25 regions, fatigue fractures frequently form within the grains, but if the stress concentration is high enough, they can also form at the base of the crevice on the grain boundaries. The fatigue fracture propagates in a wave-like pattern under a microscope. It was proposed that the length of the crack and the rate of formation of fatigue microcracks could be correlated to ascertain the opening displacement at the tip of the crack.