Effect of Maximum Piston Velocity on Internal Homogeneity of AlSi9Cu3(Fe) Alloy Processed by High-Pressure Die Casting

High-pressure die casting results in a high quality surface and good mechanical properties of castings. Under the effect of pressure, integral and solid castings are achieved without a large number of foundry defects. The correct and proper setting of technological parameters plays a very important role in minimizing casting defects. The aim of the presented article is to determine the optimum maximum piston velocity for a casting in the high-pressure casting process with two height variants, depending on their internal quality. It is because the internal quality of particular castings is important in terms of proper functionality in operations where the biggest problem is the porosity of the casting. The main cause of porosity formation is the decreasing solubility of gases (most often hydrogen) during the melt solidification. Solubility represents the maximum amount of gas that can dissolve in a metal under equilibrium conditions of temperature and pressure. Macroporosity and microporosity were determined from the sections of the surfaces in the determined zones of the castings. Here, the results was that the macroporosity decreased with increasing piston velocity. Ideal microstructure was evaluated at a piston velocity of 3 m/s for both types of castings. On the other hand, the increase in tube size has shown that velocities of 3 m/s and higher, the tube is more prone to macroporosity formation. The highest hardness was achieved at the piston velocity of 2 m/s at both tube lengths.