The continuous growth in the usage of the twin roll caster process for aluminum plate production demands a better understanding of the plate's final characteristics. In this work two non-heat treatable largely-used aluminum alloys, namely 3003 (1.2%Mn; 0.6%Fe) and 8106 (0.4%Mn; 1.5% Fe), have been studied. Samples were obtained from 7mm thick plates stemming from rolls in the as-cast condition and after 500°C/12h homogenizing heat treatment. The techniques employed in the sample characterization included: polarized light optical microscopy, microhardness and electrical conductivity tests.
Aluminium; twin roll caster; homogenization; microstructure
