Production of Strong Steel‐Aluminum Composites by Formation of Intermetallic Phases in Compound Forging

In times of increasing energy costs automotive light weight construction is gaining more importance. The production of hybrid compounds by forging is a promising method to successfully manufacture functional parts by applying resource‐saving process steps. However, in compound forging of steel‐aluminum parts shrinking gaps may form because of the different thermal expansion coefficients. To avoid these unwanted gaps, it is necessary to achieve a firmly bonded joint e.g. by intermetallic phases. This paper deals with the investigation of the influences of different sample preparations, process parameters and true strains on the formation of intermetallic phases. Thus, the optimum production parameters for compound forging of steel‐aluminum parts will be determined.