Microstructure evolution of Nd–Fe–B alloys in consideration of magnetohydrodynamics

Abstract The solidification process and the resulting microstructure of Nd–Fe–B alloys in consideration of melt convection has been investigated experimentally with a specially designed floating-zone arrangement. A controlled influence on the melt flow is possible via tailored magnetic fields which enable enhancement or suppression of the melt convection. The microstructure pattern, mainly the volume fraction and grain size of the α-Fe phase, vary strongly with the strength of the internal flow.