Evaluation of Impact Fracture Toughness of AZ31 Magnesium Alloy

The mechanical properties of magnesium alloys under dynamic loading have not been explored in sufficient depth. This research aims to estimate the impact fracture toughness of AZ31 magnesium alloy by finite element (FE) analysis. An FE model of impact three-point bending with three elastic bars is developed. FE analysis is presented for AZ31 magnesium alloy and compared with the results for 7075-T6 aluminum alloy as a reference. The FE analysis showed that the plastic deformation region is wider and the crack propagating rate is lower in the AZ31 specimen than in the 7075-T6 specimen. Moreover, the energy absorption capability and impact fracture toughness of AZ31 alloy were found to be higher than those of 7075-T6 alloy.