Effects of Uniform and Gradient High Magnetic Fields on Gravity Segregation in Aluminum Alloys

Abstract

The effects of uniform and gradient magnetic fields on gravity segregation in Al–5wt%Cu and Al–10wt%Mg alloys are investigated. The results show that high magnetic fields can be used to control the solute distribution and thus control gravity segregation caused by the difference of physical properties such as density and magnetic susceptibility between the bulk liquid and the solute-enriched liquid. The effects of the field can be attributed to performances of Lorentz and magnetic forces.