This paper studied the relationship between the residual amount of Sr and the morphology of the eutectic Si phase in A356 obtained through different modification treatment processes; additionally, the cooling rates of molds were studied. The eutectic Si phase revealed a satisfactory modification effect at residual Sr amounts above 0.01 wt % in A356 alloys cast using an iron mould. Complete modification of the eutectic Si phase could be achieved at a Sr additive amount 0.03 wt % in an A356 melt. The addition of higher amounts of Sr (~0.04–0.06 wt %) did not improve the modification effect. With the addition of 0.06 wt % Sr into A356 alloy melt and holding at 750 °C, the anti-fading capacity of Sr modification effect could be sustained for 120 minutes. More Sr is needed to obtain a good modification of eutectic Si for an A356 alloy cast using a sand mold.
5 March 2024 in Journal of Materials Research and Technology