Development and Processing of Density Reduced Magnesium Alloys

Ongoing research activities of the Institute of Materials Science at Hanover University are focused on expanding the application potential of Mg-Li-alloys. Therefore this paper is intended to give a comprehensive survey of the present R&D work. First, available techniques for the production and processing of ingot materials will be illustrated. Starting with a general characterisation of different cph- and bcc- Mg-Li-alloy basis, microstructural influences of further alloying components especially aluminium and silicon as well as of ageing and thermomechanical treatments will be described. Evaluating the corresponding mechanical behaviour, the results are finally discussed with the aim of improving the technological properties and perspectives of Li containing Mg-alloys. In addition the paper describes a furnace for melting, metering and maintaining melt temperature, which is specially configured for the requirements of magnesium. It is linked to a modified cold chamber die casting machine to get a casting plant. Furthermore, investigations concerning the necessity of a thermally adjustable shot sleeve are summarised and coating materials for fittings, which prevent heavy metal contamination, are discussed.