Up-scaled equal channel angular pressing of AA6060 and subsequent mechanical properties

Abstract Equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) experiments on AA6060 alloy were performed at room temperature and 150 °C with different pressing speeds. It was possible to accomplish between 3 and 6 passes for the different parameter combinations before cracks were observed at the surface of the billets. The microstructure investigations of the materials revealed a fragmented grain structure and a more undefined mushy structure. Hardness testing showed about 110 Vickers for room temperature and low speed pressings. Tensile testing revealed corresponding results with the highest proof stress of 324 MPa for the same parameter settings. This is typically 75% higher than nominal values for this alloy. Elongation, or ductility, was however lower than nominal values by about 60%.