Continuous casting and rolling for the manufacturing of thin Al sheets

Purpose: Purpose of this paper is presenting the state-of-the-art and the mechanism of Al continuous casting process and to improve the microstructure of the Al sheets reducing the morphological differences between the surface layer and the core of the considered alloy. Design/methodology/approach: After a short illustration of some techniques which are presently employed for the production of Al alloy sheets for packaging applications, the development of the grain structure and the effect of the homegenization treatment and rolling on the microstructurural evolution has been presented and discussed. Findings: The positive effect of the homogenization treatment and rolling on the microstructure has been demonstrated. The homogenized alloy presents improved workability and machinability. Research limitations/implications: Based on the up to date achieved outcomes, it appears that homogeneous, fine microstructure and quite uniform distribution of the particles allow obtaining higher mechanical properties. The future research work will be oriented to get additional and detailed data on the performance of the alloy. Practical implications: The continuous increase of Al-based alloys in different applications involves manufacturing high integrity and superior performance components using cost-effective and safely processes. In this direction the research communities together with manufacturing industries are focusing their attention to develop new and enhanced products using innovative procedures. The central issue is the technological transfer to industry for affordable mass production. Originality/value: Obtaining a fine and homogenous microstructure for Al sheets by reducing the morphological differences between the surface layer and the core of the alloy improved mechanical performances and enhanced workability and machinability has been obtained. High performance end-product make this type of alloy very attractive for packaging material production.