Semi-solid
The forming at a semi-solid state of aluminium alloys, also called SSM - semi-solid metallurgy, is a relatively new technique in the production of light alloys which has recently been recognised as a proper industrial process. Amongst its countless advantages, the most significant is the absence of turbulent motion during the filling of the die, which results in an increase in viscosity and a better control of the material at a semi-solid state. The laminar motion of the metal limits the trapping of air which normally occurs in a traditional die-casting process.
Tcs, company part of the Cannon group, has recently developed a system for the prototyzing of structural components for the auto/nautical market which utilises this semi-solid technology.
This is a vertical die-casting machine, with vertical injection (Tcs patent) which enables the production of structural components possessing better mechanical characteristics.
Moreover, thanks to the reduced porosity on the components produced, it is possible to carry out thermal treatments which will contribute to further increase their mechanical properties., treatments which can’t be applied to similar components produced with traditional die-casting processing.

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