Mechanical Properties and Microstructures of A356 Alloy Prepared by Casting Combined With Forging

A novel process which combines casting with forging during one process was proposed to improve mechanical properties and refine microstructure. The microstructure evolution of as-cast samples and forged samples were analyzed by optical microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The tensile properties and micro-hardness were also measured. The results show that combination of casting and forging can improve microstructure and decrease porosity of casting samples, consequently contributing to a better fatigue performance. The ultimate tensile strength and elongation were increased after forging process, however, the yield strength and micro-hardness decreased.