Mechanical Properties of Low-Pressure Die Cast A356-T6 alloys for Automotive Wheels

The mechanical properties of low-pressure die cast (LPDC) A356-T6 automotive road wheels are evaluated and correlated with their corresponding microstructures. In this study, two types of alloy wheels processed using different LPDC gating system are investigated. The yield stress, tensile stress, and elongation values tested at room temperature are correlated with the secondary dendrite arm spacing (SDAS) with respect to the gating system, and are also compared with similar studies. The SDAS and precipitates are examined using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy. The phase information is also investigated using X-ray diffraction. Charpy impact tests are also performed from $-100^{\circ}C$ to $200^{\circ}C$, and the fracture surfaces are examined using SEM. The impact energy is demonstrated to increase with increasing temperatures without exhibiting specific transition behaviors as in other nonferrous alloys. The fracture toughness is also evaluated using three point bend test with single-edged bend specimens. The obtained fracture toughness values are in good agreement with those in similar studies.

Alloy Wheel용 저압 주조 A356-T6 합금의 기계적 특성