Energy Absorption Characteristics of Ductile AlSi4MgMn and AlSi9MgMn Die-Castings Investigated by Shear Bolt Testing

The energy absorption of high-pressure die-cast AlSi4MgMn and AlSi9MgMn alloy samples is investigated in the as-cast, and solutionised and 4 h aged condition using a shear bolt test. The shear bolt test is not a standard technique to test the properties of the material, but can be used to evaluate the energy absorption of the material. The microstructures of the as-cast and heat-treated specimens are examined. The fracture surfaces are investigated using scanning electron microscopy to understand the fracture mechanism during the shear bolt tests. The heat treatment is expected to give better properties owing to, i.e., spheroidisation of Si particles and subsequent age hardening due to the presence of Mg in the alloy. It is observed that there is 10–30 % improvement in energy absorbing capacity of the material after ageing.