Solidification Behavior of Rapidly Quenched LaFe sub(13-x)Si sub(x) Alloys

Solidification behavior of LaFe sub(13-x)Si sub(x) alloys was investigated using rapidly quenching and. Phase formation and structure in rapidly quenched LaFe sub(13-x)Si sub(x) alloys has been investigated by means of power X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results have shown that 1:13 phase is a peritectic phase. The solidification behavior of LaFe13-xSix alloys depend on x, cooling rate. Under small undercooling, the 1:13 phase is difficult to formed with x=0.5 to 3.0. The alpha -(Fe,Si) phase and the 1:2:2 phase is mainly phase in the microstructure of alloy with low and high Si contents, respectively. Under higher cooling rate, the microstructure of compositions with x> or =1.5 occurs the 1:13 phase. The alpha -(Fe,Si) phase and the 1:13 phase is mainly phase in the microstructure of alloy with low and high Si contents, respectively. The microstructure of compositions with x=2.5 to 3.0 are mainly phase which is primary phase. The results were discussed with respect to the effect of cooling rate.