Evolution of Properties of High-Strength and High-Mg-Content CuMg Alloys After Being Subjected to Single Operation 50% Deformation in Hot and Cold Upsetting Tests

Since most hot and cold metal-forming processes originate from various casting processes, it is important to test their susceptibility to the deformation of new materials. Cast rods of CuMg alloys with a Mg content of 2, 2.4, 2.8, 3, 3.2, 3.6, and 4 wt.% were obtained in the continuous casting process with pure copper as a reference material in order to obtain information on the material's ability to withstand 50% deformation. The materials in the as-cast state were subjected to solutioning, cold drawing, and recrystallization. After each process, samples were taken and subjected to upsetting tests with 50% deformation applied in a single operation. Additionally, materials in the as-cast state were subjected to upsetting tests at 700 °C. The hardness and electrical conductivity of each sample were analyzed. Selected samples were subjected to microstructural analysis. The obtained results show an increase in hardness from 46 HB to 90-126 HB, and a further increase to 150-190 HB with a quasi-linear decrease of electrical conductivity, which proved the influence of solid-solution and strain hardening, respectively. The microstructural analysis proved that such deformation does not cause microcracks. Furthermore, in the case of CuMg up to 3 wt.% of Mg, the alloying additive completely dissolved after solutioning.