Study of the Efficiency and Temperature Loss Caused by Degassing and Filtration of AlSi9Cu3 Alloy

Abstract

This paper presents a research on the ability of the techniques of degassing and filtration to improve the properties of the AlSi9Cu3 alloy. The study includes four types of samples: (1) nontreated, (2) filtered, (3) degassed, and (4) filtered and subsequently degassed samples. Degassing was carried out using nitrogen gas, whereas a 20-pores-per-inch (ppi) alumina filter was used for filtering the samples. The analysis was focused on three aspects: First, the influence of these processes on the porosity was determined by means of software to analyze micrographs. Second, the distribution of phases and the presence of inclusions were obtained by combining optical and scanning electron microscopy. Finally, the temperature loss as a result of each of the treatments received by the material was measured. This information is particularly relevant in view of the subsequent use of the molten material to manufacture parts through highpressure die casting.