The effect of cooling rate on the structure and properties of pure aluminium and on
the structure and properties of Al-Cu alloys is investigated using two types of
mould. The results show that the rate of cooling is faster the specimen obtained has
the highest value of strength and hardness. Also, the results show that the
secondary dendrite arm spacing (DAS) are better refined by using this technology
with rate of cooling is faster. It was observed that as the cooling rate increased the
secondary dendrite arm spacing of the alloys decreased but their hardness and
strength increased. Phase-transformation temperatures and enthalpy of
solidification of these alloys have been measured using differential scanning
calorimetry.
