Article ID: M2015244
The influence of a low frequency alternating magnetic field (LFAMF) during solidification was investigated for Cu-14Fe composites. The microstructure was investigated by optical microscope; the solute distribution in different phases was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy; the oxygen content was tested by oxygen & nitrogen analyzer; the conductivity was measured by eddy current conductivity meter; and the micro-hardness was measured by Vickers hardness tester. AMF treatment reduced rod shape and large size Fe dendrites, changed some Fe dendrites into club shape and equiaxed grains, and promoted the homogenization of Fe phase distribution. In addition, AMF treatment increased the Cu content in Fe phase and decreased the Fe content in Cu matrix. The effect of AMF during solidification was discussed from the view of thermodynamics and kinetics. This was attributed to the refinement of primary Fe dendrites and the precipitation of Fe atoms from Cu matrix.
