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Thixomolding

Forming process where semi-solid metal is injected into a mold.

Beskrivning
Illustration of Thixomolding

The process

The method belongs to the semi-solid metal casting type. The processing begins when a piece of solid metal is heated to a temperature between the metal solidus and liquidus. Heating is done inside a chamber with inert gas to prevent oxidation. A typical composition of the metal is approximately 30-65% solid in which the primary phase has a globular structure to achieve a low viscosity, which is necessary for the processing to occur. The semi-solid metal pieces are then pressed in a mold [1], and when the metal has cooled, the mold is opened and the cast product is ready.