Abstract
Squeeze casting is the combination of casting and forging processes, which solidifies the molten metal under high pressure. Applying pressure during melt-solidification can change several characteristics of the material. The present paper aims to evaluate the effect of pressure levels and T6 heat treatment on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Al-11%Si alloy produced by gravity and squeeze casting process. The results have shown that the applied pressure refines the microstructure, improves the tensile properties and increases the Vickers hardness. Additionally, when the T6 heat treatment was applied, spheroidized eutectic Si particles and fragmented β phase particles were formed, and the mechanical properties were improved.

Key words
Al-11%Si, squeeze casting, T6 heat treatment, microstructure, mechanical properties

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