Thermo-mechanical processing of aluminum profiles by integrated electromagnetic compression subsequent to hot extrusion

In this paper, a strategy for the thermo-mechanical processing of aluminum profiles by subsequent electromagnetic forming and heat treatment is given. A tool coil for electromagnetic compression was positioned behind the die exit and coaxially to the extrudate in order to reduce the workpiece cross section locally. Additionally, a counter die in the shape of a mandrel was mounted to the mandrel of a porthole extrusion die which extended into the tool coil. Besides achieving a more defined geometry in comparison to a free forming operation, by this also the geometrical complexity of locally compressed areas can be achieved.