Abstract:Prior to thixoextrusion, the microstructural evolution of semi-solid AM50A magnesium alloy prepared by the recrystallisation and partial remelting (RAP) route was investigated. The effect of compressive ratio on microstructure of semi-solid AM50A magnesium alloy was studied. Furthermore, tensile properties of thixoextruded components were determined. The results showed that the occurrence of recrystallised grains was closely associated with the location of the first liquid formed above the solidus. With prolonging holding time, deformed microstructure was penetrated, causing fragmentation, which resulted in the decrease of average grain size. Moreover, prolonging holding time was favorable for the improvement of the degree of spheroidization due to the increase in the amount of liquid. With the increase in compressive ratio, the size of solid grain decreased, the degree of spheroidization was improved during partial remelting, and the tensile properties of thixoextruded AM50A components were improved. The tensile properties for AM50A magnesium alloy thixoextruded from starting material produced by the RAP route were better than those of the same alloy produced by die-casting and thixomolding.

Key words: AM50A magnesium alloy; semi-solid; microstructure; mechanical properties