Influence of different alloying elements on the intermetallic phase seam thickness of compound forged steel-aluminum parts

In times of increasing energy costs automotive light weight construction is gaining more importance. Thus, attempts have been made to replace steel components with parts made of aluminum alloys. This, however, often involves the deterioration of important component properties and impedes material substitution in mechanically high-stressed parts like gear components. Due to this, the attempt to design load-optimized parts with hybrid structure which correspond to the requirements of structural light weight construction is made. The production of hybrid compounds by forging is a promising method to manufacture functional parts by applying resource-saving process steps. The aim of the presented research is to determine the optimal production parameters for compound forging. To characterize the component quality it is necessary to investigate the factors influencing the joining zone. © 2011 German Academic Society for Production Engineering (WGP).