Low shear rate behavior at high solid fractions of partially solidified Al–8 wt.% Cu alloys

The rheological behavior at high solid fractions of a partially solidified Al–8 wt.% Cu alloy is investigated using shear tests in a Couette viscometer. The effect of grain refinement on the rheological behavior is particularly addressed. Shear experiments have been conducted at three temperatures above the eutectic: 550, 575 and 587°C. Experimental data reveal a clear difference in the shear response of the refined and unrefined alloys. The …