Impact of cold upset forging during heat treatment in Al-1.1Si-0.97Mg alloy

Abstract Al-Si-Mg alloys possess superior forgeability attributed to their silicon content and are heat-treatable, allowing for modification of mechanical properties. The AA6082 alloy, renowned for its medium strength and lightweight nature, finds extensive applications in the automotive and aerospace sectors. Researchers utilize thermomechanical processing to tailor microstructure and mechanical properties. This study delves into the effects of cold upset forging on AA6082 alloy behaviour post partial solutionizing and aging heat treatment, with variations in time and temperature. Subsequent analysis investigates microstructural alterations and their relationship with mechanical properties under diverse aging conditions post-forging. This investigation aims to elucidate the structure–property interplay for understanding 6082 alloy’s behaviour in better way. The internal stresses/residual stresses also play a pivotal role to change the AA6082 behaviour during thermomechanical processing. This is also investigated while relating microstructural aspects with mechanical properties and fractography.