Characterization of Steel Thixoforming Tool Materials by High Temperature Compression Tests

The experimental set-up and the results of high temperature compression tests for the characterization of tool materials for steel thixoforming are presented. The scope of this test is to reproduce the load profile of steel thixoforming processes consisting of mechanical, thermal, tribological, and chemical components on the forming mould. Tool materials were chosen following a concept within the Collaborative Research Center - SFB 289 - "Forming of metals in the semi-solid state and their properties". Three materials groups are distinguished: thin film deposited by physical vapor deposition (PVD) and plasma assisted chemical vapour deposition (PACVD), thick coatings (thermal spraying), and bulk ceramic materials. Samples were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-Ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The results show varying resistance of the tool materials concerning the load profile. In order to provide an appropriate tool solution for the thixoforming of steels, different load profiles within the forming moulds are identified and the corresponding tool part is made from that material with the best performance.