Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of AA2195 DC Cast Ingot Plates

DC cast ingot plates are especially suitable for large mold manufacturing in the plastic and automotive industries. The microstructures and mechanical properties of AA2195 DC cast ingot plates in the as-cast and heat-treated conditions were studied. Aging treatments were carried out at 125 and 150°C for 12 and 24 h. A microstructural analysis was conducted using optical and scanning electron microscopies as well as a differential scanning calorimetry. The results show a significant increase in yield and tensile strengths after aging at 150°C. It is suggested that the strengthening of AA2195 cast plates is largely determined by the proportion of both θ′-Al2Cu and T1-Al2CuLi precipitations. By adopting an appropriate heat treatment, AA2195 cast ingot plates can provide a range of satisfactory combinations of strength and ductility which fulfill the design requirements of large mold applications.