Effect of rare earth Ce and Y on microstructure and viscosity of ZL114A alloy

To investigate the impact of rare earth on the fluidity of casting aluminum alloy during the filling process, the study measured the effects of rare earth (Ce, Y) content and the mischmetal (Ce / Y) on the viscosity of ZL114A alloy melt using a viscosimeter. The results show that for a single rare earth element, when the addition amount of Ce and Y is 0.4 wt%, the grain size and viscosity reach a minimum, with average grain sizes of 45.42μm and 43.54μm respectively, and the solidification range decreases by 4.23°C and 4.61°C respectively, with Y having a better effect than Ce; compared with the alloy without rare earth elements, the grain growth mode changes from independent nucleation to outward extension form. For mixed rare earth elements, the refinement effect is better than that of a single rare earth element, but the viscosity is higher. When the Ce/Y mass ratio is 1/3, the grain size and viscosity reach a minimum, with an average grain size of 40.75μm and a solidification range shortened by 8.92°C; when the proportion of Y is higher, the alloy shows better refinement of the microstructure and viscosity improvement. Rare earth elements have the potential to enhance the fluidity and solidification structure of ZL114A alloy. This study offers valuable technical insights for optimizing the casting process and mold design.