Grain refining of aluminium and its alloys using inoculants

Author: McCartney, D. G.

Source: International Materials Reviews, Volume 34, 1989 , pp. 247-260(14)

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Abstract:

Grain structure is an important and readily observable feature in cast aluminium alloys. Three different types of grain morphology are possible, namely, columnar, twinned columnar, and equiaxed. Inoculants in the form of master alloys are used to promote the formation of a fully equiaxed grain structure and this is termed grain refinement. Initially, fundamental aspects of solidification are outlined in order that the principles of grain refining using master alloys can be understood. Techniques for the commercial production and testing of common Al–Ti-based master alloys are then discussed briefly. The exact mechanisms by which grain refinement occurs are not yet fully understood and experimental and theoretical studies on the problem are critically reviewed with particular emphasis on (a) the role of solute titanium, (b) the thermodynamics of Al–Ti-based alloy systems, and (c) the nature of heterogeneous nuclei. Finally, current and future trends in the use of grain refining alloys are summarised.

Document Type: Research Article

Publication date: 1989-01-01

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International Materials Review has four previous titles in the archive. Please see the original title Metallurgical Reviews for volumes 1 to 16, International Metallurgical Reviews for volumes 17 to 20, and International Metals Reviews for volumes 21 to 31.
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