On the Direct Extrusion of Solder Wire from 52In-48Sn Alloy

Abstract

In this article, technology for producing wire and rod solder from 52In-48Sn alloy has been developed and investigated in the conditions of small-scale production. The use of direct extrusion of wire and rods instead of traditional technology for producing solder, which includes pressing, rolling and drawing, can significantly reduce the fleet of required equipment. Using only a melting furnace and a hydraulic press, solder wires and rods can be produced in various sizes. Shortening the production cycle allows you to quickly fulfill small orders and be competitive in sales. This article develops a mathematical model of direct extrusion, which allows you to calculate the extrusion ratio, extrusion speed and pressing force. The results of modeling the process of extrusion of wire Ø2.00 mm and rods Ø8.0 mm made of 52In-48Sn alloy are presented. The temperature of the solder and the tool is simulated in software QForm based on the finite element method. Experimental results of manufacturing Ø2.0 mm solder wire and Ø8.0 mm rods are presented. The microstructure of the direct extruded solder is a eutectic of phases γ and β. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) mapping of the 52In-48Sn alloy showed that the solder obtained by direct extrusion has a uniform distribution of structural phases. The developed technology can be used in the manufacture of wires and rods from other low-melting alloys.