The Effects of Forging on the Microstructure and Tensile Properties of Magnesium Alloys AZ31 and ZK60

Magnesium alloys have gained considerable attention in the last fifteen years for application in electronic and automotive applications due to their high strength to weight ratio. High‐pressure die casting is currently the predominant production technique with over 90 % of magnesium products produced by casting. Forging provides many performance advantages over cast parts due to increased strength but the metal is difficult to form due to a limited number of slip systems active at room temperature and excessive oxidation at higher temperatures; alloys have been developed to improve forging characteristics. In the present investigation magnesium alloys AZ31 and ZK60 have been forged using a two step forging process. Difficulty was encountered in forming deep embossments due to the inadequate flow characteristics of the material. Microstructure analysis has been performed to determine the development of texture through the forging process. Mechanical testing has shown a significant improvement in mechanical properties after forging compared to the blank material