New generation steels for aluminium die casting
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Karlstads universitet - Avdelningen för maskin- och materialteknik |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 300 000 |
| Project duration | November 2013 - June 2014 |
| Status | Completed |
Important results from the project
The new knowledge of soldering resistance of selected grade(s) of new powder metallurgy and conventional tool steel grades made by Uddeholms AB and gain knowledge on influence of alloying elements on the anti-soldering properties was obtained. Based on the project findings, an approach to alloying of new tool steel grade(a) with enhanced anti-soldering characteristics satisfying increased demands of die-casting industries was successfully developed.
Expected long term effects
The project resulted in gaining new knowledge on how microstructure would affect tendency to soldering of modern advanced tool steels. The understanding of thermochemical interaction of tool steel with molten aluminum is important to predict soldering phenomenon. Based on the project findings, new tool steel grade(a) was developed. The new grade will be further tested (application as a Materialbasetad konkurrenskraft 2014-verification project) to show advantages for aluminum die casting industry.
Approach and implementation
The project was done in collaboration between Karlstad University and R&D department of Uddeholms AB accordingly to planned schedule. The soldering tests were done at KAU and then electron microscopy was done at KAU and Uddeholms AB. The tests and examinations were dedicated to evaluate thickness of intermetallic layer, number and phase constitution of intermetallic layers, total corrosive wear. Obtained results were discussed in several current meetings and planned to be published as a journal or conference article.