Microstructure Reconfiguration of Roll-Casting 6061 Alloy by In Situ Magnetic Field with Various Directions and Frequencies
摘要
A traveling wave magnetic field (TWMF) with varying directions—same direction (SD) and opposite direction (OD)—and frequencies ranging from 5 to 25 Hz was applied to both sides of the molten pool during a simulated roll-casting process. The investigation focused on the evolution of internal and external defects, element segregation, second phase morphology, and mechanical properties of 6061 aluminum alloy ingots, both with and without the influence of the magnetic field. The introduction of TWMF disrupts the natural convection mechanisms governing solidification heat and mass transfer, leading to improvements in the ingot's surface morphology. It inhibits dendritic growth and reduces shrinkage porosity while refining the grain structure. Additionally, the orientation of the second phase becomes increasingly diverse and discontinuous, which mitigates center layer segregation and enhances material homogeneity. The spatial gradient characteristics inherent in the SD magnetic field mode result in variations in defect rates, segregation, and mechanical properties across both sides of the ingot. The OD magnetic field creates dynamic shear force through directional switching, breaking dendrites, and guiding second-phase growth to uniformity in the ingot. This highlights the industrial potential of TWMF-controlled aluminum alloy processing.