Load/Displacement and Energy Dissipation Performances of Aluminum and Magnesium Extrusions Subjected to Quasi-Static and Dynamic Loading under Axial Crush and Cutting Deformation Modes

Findings from quasi-static and impact loading of aluminum (AA6082-T6) and magnesium (AZ31B-F) circular extrusions when subjected to crush and cutting modes of deformation are presented. Circular cross sectional extrusion geometry with a thickness of 1.5 mm, a diameter of 62 mm, and lengths equal to 300 mm were selected. Dynamic loading resulted from impact with a dropping mass of 57 kg at a velocity of 7 m/s. Under cutting deformation, the aluminum alloy extrusions generated lengthy chips ahead of the cutter followed by stable formation of petalled cut side walls. The magnesium extrusions, illustrated the formation of small chips and sides walls which often, although not consistently, fractured. Energy dissipation was noted to be greater and the deformation more stable for the aluminum extrusions. Under a cutting deformation mode, energy dissipation of 0.621 – 0.684 kJ for the magnesium extrusions was found compared to 1.20 – 1.23 kJ for the aluminum extrusions.