Structural Transformation of the Surface of an Aluminum Alloy after Hydroabrasive Action

The results of investigating an Al–Mg alloy (5.8–6.8 wt % Mg) subjected to hydroabrasive action are presented. It is revealed that the cut surface is contaminated with fragments of particles of the abrasive. The cut-surface relief is studied with the help of scanning electron microscopy. The cut-surface microhardness and the cold-hardened layer depth are determined. The structural transformation near the surface is investigated via X-ray diffraction analysis and transmission electron microscopy. The structural state of the alloy near the surface is demonstrated to be extremely inhomogeneous. Plastic deformation leads to the formation of an ultrafine-grained structure with a heightened level of stresses.