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History

1. Discovery of thixotoropy phenomenon in semi-solid metal(D.Spencer)(1971)
Measure the viscosity of Pb-Sn based alloy in a semi-solid state
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Apparent viscosity changes reversibly by stirring
High stir speed
 4444 High apparent viscosity
Low stir speed
 4444 Low apparent viscosity
(Vigorous agitation, the melt which contains more than 30% solid phase can achieve the fluidity similar to case of the full liquid phase.
4Named "thixomolding")


2. Development of metal molding technology with applying thixotoropy(1970's)

Proposal of the Reo-casting(M.Flemings)(1976)
Solidify alloy with stirring
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Billet with granular crystal structure
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Heated to the semi-solid state
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Possible to handle as the solid material in standstill
and to handle as the liquid material under in the shearing stress condition
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Handling as the solid material(Reo-casting)


3. Application to the injection molding technology(Dow.Co., Ltd. and Battel Research Institute)
(the later of 1970's~1980's)
Use chipped alloys as the feed stock, and supply to an in-line screw type.
Stirred by screw rotation under heating
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Semi-solid slurry with high fluidity
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Possible to molding alloys like resin


4. Development of the injection molding machine for Mg alloy (JSW.Co.,Ltd.)(1990's)
High speed injection system/Heat and erosion resistant S/C 4444 Thixomolding machine


5. Spread of thixomolded products
Establishment of MG Precision Co,. Ltd. /Come out of thixomolders
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Application of thixomolded products to electronic mobile housing, etc.

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