Effects of strain and strain rate on tensile behavior of hot-forged Al 6061-T6

In the present study, the effects of strain and strain rate on the microstructure and tensile behavior of hot-forged Al 6061-T6 were examined using a partially recrystallized extruded bar as a forging stock. It was found that the grain size and the size of Mg2Si precipitate were largely dependent on the strain rate, as well as strain. Higher strain rates, for example, greatly encouraged grain growth during hot forging and subsequent heat treatment. At a similar strain rate, higher strain value further retarded the grain growth. As a consequence, the tensile properties of hot-forged Al 6061-T6 were significantly affected by such microstructural changes.