Recrystallization of AZ31 Alloy

Magnesium alloys are extensively used in electronics, automotive and aerospace industries due to their low densities and high specific strengths. However, limited deformability of magnesium alloys at room temperature restricts the applications. Grain refinement and texture weakening as a result of recrystallization can be used to enhance the deformability of these alloys. In this study, recrystallization behavior of cold rolled and swaged AZ31 alloy is investigated at different temperatures in the range of 200-300°C. Effects of unidirectional and complex deformation modes on recrystallization behavior and microstructure development are studied. Microstructural analyses consisted of the examination of the grain structure and twinned regions by using optical and scanning electron microscopes. The volume fraction of recrystallized grains is determined by image analysis and supported by the hardness measurements.