Influence of Deep Cryogenic Treatment on the Mechanical and Plastic Properties of AlMg4.5 Aluminium Alloy

Abstract

In this article, the influence of deep cryogenic treatment (DCT) on the microstructure, as well as on the strength and ductile mechanical characteristics, of the AlMg4.5 (EN AW-5083) aluminium alloy is investigated. The DCT process consists of the gradual cooling of the investigated material to a temperature of $$-197\,^\circ$$C using liquid nitrogen, maintained for 24 and 48 hours, followed by gradual tempering back to room temperature. The changes in mechanical properties resulting from DCT were analyzed through Vickers hardness measurements and tensile testing, while the structural changes were identified by means of microstructural analysis and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The results indicate structural-level changes after DCT, accompanied by an improvement in mechanical properties.