M. D. Hanna, J. T. Carter, GM Reserach and Development Center, Warren, MI; N. Mahayotsanun, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL; R. Verma, General Motors, Warren, MI
An investigation was undertaken to understand the interaction between a steel tool and AZ31 magnesium alloy sheet during high-temperature forming. A new flat-on-flat tribo-testing method involving reciprocating sliding of steel specimens against magnesium alloy sheet at elevated temperature was used to determine the effects of temperature, load and lubricant thickness on the steel tool/magnesium sheet interaction. The coefficient of friction increased with increasing test temperature but was reduced substantially by the use of a solid lubricant. The tribological behavior of the magnesium alloy is compared with that of aluminum alloy AA 5083.
Summary: An investigation was undertaken to understand the interaction between a steel tool and AZ31 magnesium alloy sheet during high-temperature forming. A new flat-on-flat tribo-testing method involving reciprocating sliding of steel specimens against magnesium alloy sheet at elevated temperature was used to determine the effects of temperature, load and lubricant thickness on the steel tool/magnesium sheet interaction. The coefficient of friction increased with increasing test temperature but was reduced substantially by the use of a solid lubricant. The tribological behavior of the magnesium alloy is compared with that of aluminum alloy AA 5083.
