Microstructures and mechanical properties of bulk AlFeNd(Cu,Si) alloys obtained through centrifugal force casting

The present work reports the development of bulk fine structured AlFeNd and AlFeNdCuSi alloys processed directly from the liquid, using a new centrifugal force casting method. The casting equipment consists of a device adapted in a single roller melt spinning that converts the vertical turn of the melt spinning in a centrifugal force that presses the liquid alloy into a copper mould. The basic details of the device and a first model for the liquid movement are described. Microstructures, hardness and compressive strength results are also presented. The results are compared to the same alloys cast through gravity mould casting. It is shown that the new method promotes finer microstructures and considerably superior mechanical properties. The AlFeNd centrifugal cast specimens lead to higher compressive strain and strength, comparable to high strength wrought conventional Al alloys.