Effects of viscosity on cellular structure of foamed aluminum in foaming process

The effects of melt viscosity on the foaming process and the structures of foamed aluminum have been examined. Methods for measuring the melt viscosity, pore structure, and foaming process are introduced. To increase the stability of the foaming melt and get the sample with a uniform pore distribution, a proper viscosity is needed. Further, the structure of foamed aluminum can be controlled by adjusting the Ca addition and other process parameters. (C) 2000 Kluwer Academic Publishers.