Registration of crystallization process of ultra-lightweight Mg-Li alloys with use of ATND method

Magnesium alloys are characterized by advantageous ratio of strength and/or elastic modulus to density, that is, can sustain static and dynamic loads similar to iron and aluminium, and additionally feature good vibration damping. Castings from magnesium alloys are lighter with about 20 - 30% than aluminium alloys and with 50 – 75% than iron alloys, that is why they are used in aviation and rocket industry and everywhere the weight of a product is of important significance for conditions of its operation. Also automotive industry introduces to vehicle’s structure an elements (castings) manufactured from such alloys. On metallic matrix of magnesium alloys with lithium are also manufactured a composites reinforced with e.g. ceramic fiber, which are used as lightweight and resistant structure materials. The paper presents an attempt of implementation of ATND method (Thermal-Voltage-Derivative Analysis) to monitoring of crystallization process of ultra-lightweight Mg-Li alloys. Investigated magnesium alloys with contents of about 2,3% Li, 10% Li and 11 % Li were produced in the Foundry Research Institute. Registration of melting and crystallization processes was made with use of the ATND method. Results of preliminary tests are shown in graphical form.