Research into the properties and microstructure of ZA13 alloy tubes formed by liquid extrusion

Liquid extrusion is a new type of forming process developed on the basis of the characteristics of both squeeze casting and solid extrusion. With this process, many types of tubes, bars, and shaped products can be produced. Compared with traditional processes, the production steps can be simplified, and the end item can be obtained directly in a single process. In this paper, the characteristics of the process are introduced, the emphasis being put on research into the influence of liquid extrusion on the microstructure and properties of ZA13 alloy, including the mechanical properties, the wear resistance, the micromorphology and the fractography. It can be seen clearly, that all of the properties have been enhanced substantially, the microstructure has been altered, and the attributes of the material have been changed after the process. Furthermore, the strenghening mechanism of liquid extrusion has been expounded and the viewpoint of the twice-strengthening to materials by the process has been advanced by the authors. All of these have proven that there appears to be a great future for the liquid extrusion process.