Improved creep resistance of Al-Cu-Mn-Fe-Ni alloys through squeeze casting

Abstract The creep resistance of an Al-Cu-Mn-Fe-Ni alloy, including the creep behavior and creep fracture mechanism, was studied using tensile creep tests, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). This study is focused on the difference in the microstructures and creep resistant properties between gravity die cast (GC) and squeeze cast (SC)alloys. The results show that the creep resistance of SC alloys measured at 180 °C with different applied stresses was at least a factor 2 higher than that of the GC alloys. The creep behavior of the GC and SC alloys occurs via dislocation climb. SC alloys may exhibit greater creep resistance due to inhibited dislocation movement and creep fracture.