Radiation annealing of AMg6, 1441, and VD1 aluminum alloy strips using a ribbon source of accelerated ions

The results of our earlier studies are summed and new data are presented on the influence of beams of accelerated Ar+ ions on the mechanical properties and structure of various commercial aluminum alloys. A short-time (5–60 s) ion-beam processing of cold-deformed alloys is shown to lead to their softening, which is analogous to that upon intermediate annealing at 320–400°C for 2–3 h used in cold rolling. An experimental ribbon ion source, which is intended for in situ processing of rolled sheets in a rolling line to remove strain hardening instead of long-term furnace annealing, is described.