Microstructural aspects of a directionally solidified Al-3.2Bi-3Cu alloy under transient conditions

Abstract

The investigation of microstructure features on complex alloys is considered a fundamental advance in order to increase properties of a solidified component, since such characteristics may be strongly affected by the microstructure. Thus, fundamental studies may be a mandatory requisite so that real application could be possible. In the case of the present proposal, investigations on both morphological features and experimental interrelations between microstructure, solute content and solidification thermal parameters are envisaged. Literature is scarce referring to studies on detailed characterization of the ternary monotectic alloy microstructures. In the case of multicomponent Al-Bi based alloys, the present investigation may contribute on the preprograming procedures for the foundry operations to be performed following better operational conditions. As a consequence, optimized microstructures could be achieved. The main purpose is to determine the experimental correlations between microstructure parameters found for the Al-3,2Bi-3,0Cu alloy and the transitory solidification thermal parameters, such as cooling rate and growth rate.