Contrary to the manufacture of aluminium components in the semi-solid, thixotropic state the production of magnesium based components by semi-solid techniques is still uncommon. For this reason, the advantage of this production method is analysed with regard to the commercial magnesium alloy AZ80. The objective of this research is semi-solid-casting (SSG) of AZ80 for the production of a light weight component in near-net-shape quality and with advanced properties. Using extruded primary feedstock material, the behaviour and the advantages are investigated. Billets with a weight of up to 2 kg are heated up into a semi-solid state. To avoid any risk of self-ignition of the material an automatic, temperature controlled induction heating system is used. To achieve an optimum homogeneous grain structure the induction heating power is varied making use of a process control system based on power-time-curves. The heated billets are transported in the soft semi-solid condition from the induction heating system to a die casting machine to produce components with wall thickness' between 2 and 10 mm. After forming of the components, the influence of heat treatment on the grain structure and especially on the mechanical properties is determined to provide parts with optimised characteristics.To compare the properties of the special globular grain and microstructure, the results of various static and dynamic tests are analysed. It is found that components can be manufactured with a magnesium alloy in a thixotropic state in near-net-shape quality, with low porosity and with excellent mechanical properties like elongation of up to 15%.
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