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Semi-solid processing (SSM) has many advantages in that the alloy is cast at lower temperatures (i.e., in the two-phase region) giving rise to reduced die wear, as well as giving rise to novel microstructures. The resultant SSM processed castings are dendrite-free and do not contain hot tears; rather, the SSM structure is globular, and the liquid phase surrounding the globules acts as a “lubricant” during processing. Moreover, the flow of the slurry into the die cavity is more laminar than turbulent, since the starting metal is in the mushy region. This concept of SSM processing was realized by the development of a continuous process titled: CRP - Continuous Rheo-conversion Process. In this process, one allows the incipient solidification of alloy melt(s) under the combined effects of forced convection and rapid cooling rates. In the CRP, two liquids held at particular level of superheat, are passively mixed within a reactor.

Squeeze casting is considered a “high integrity” casting process because it imparts qualities (higher tensile properties, in particular ductility due to reduced or absence of porosity in the matrix, and the ability to heat treat) to a metal that are difficult to achieve with conventional casting techniques including gravity permanent mold (GPM) and high pressure, high velocity (HPDC) die casting. In recent years, the squeeze casting process has been widely used with various aluminum alloys to manufacture near-net shape automotive components requiring high strength, ductility or pressure tightness. However, with the emphasis on weight reduction, lower cost and improved performance of structural components, alternative lightweight materials including magnesium are now being seriously considered. Unfortunately, the use of magnesium as a structural material has been hindered by the lack of data on mechanical properties and the lack of new improved casting methods.

This paper provides a description of commercially available die casting processes including conventional die casting process (high pressure, high velocity), squeeze casting (high pressure, controlled cavity fill rate), semi-solid metal casting, and Vacural™ (a variation of the conventional die casting process). The various automotive products made using these processes are also reported in the study. In this study, the mechanical (tensile, impact, fatigue strength and fracture toughness) and wear properties are compared among the above processes. Results indicate that mechanical and wear properties of aluminum alloys made using the “high integrity” casting processes (squeeze, semi-solid metal casting and Vacural™) are superior to those of conventional die castings.

The emergence of squeeze casting process for aluminum alloys has given material and design engineers a new alternative to conventional casting techniques: gravity permanent mold (GPM) and conventional (high velocity, high pressure) die casting. In recent years, the squeeze casting process has been applied to near net shape products requiring high impact strength, high fatigue strength, pressure tightness, or high wear resistance. This paper provides both a description of the HVSC squeeze casting process and examples of select components manufactured at CONTECH. In this study, the mechanical (tensile, impact, fracture toughness, fatigue strength) and wear properties of various aluminum alloy squeeze castings are also compared with those of gravity permanent mold and conventional die-castings. Results indicate that mechanical and wear properties of aluminum squeeze castings are superior to those of gravity permanent mold and conventional die-castings.