Textures and microstructures of AA3xxx hotbands from two different continuous casting processes

Microstructure observation and texture analysis of two AA3xxx hotbands made by twin belt casting route and a proprietary pellet casting and compacting process were carried out respectively with the aid of scanning electron microscopy and orientation distribution function from X-ray diffraction. The textures and microstructures of the two alloys made by the two processes were systematically studied and discussed, which showed significant differences through hotband thickness in individual alloys. The results as obtained in the present investigation may provide practically useful reference for the microstructures and textures control and optimisation in production of hotband of aluminium alloys and final downstream rolling products.