The effect of combination grain refinement with AlTi5B1 master (55 ppm) and Sr-modification with AlSr5 master (20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 ppm) on the microstructure, tensile and hardness properties of AlSi7MgTi cast alloy were systematically investigated. Eutectic silicon was studied by optical and scanning electron microscopy after standard (0.5% HF) and deep etching (HCl). Morphology of eutectic Si changes from compact plate-like (as-cast state) to fibbers (after modification). Si-fibbers in samples with 50 and 60 ppm Sr coarsen probably as a result of over-modification. The optimum mechanical properties has the experimental material which was grain refined and modified with 40 ppm of Sr (UTS = 220.6 MPa; ductility = 6.1%, and 82.3 HBW 5/250/15).

A source of pure silicon was added into an alloy refining system during a refining process with the application of a direct electric current. The effect of the temperature difference between the graphite electrodes and the alloy was decreased. The temperature increase value (ΔT) of the Al-28.51wt.%Si alloy sample caused by Joule heating was calculated by weighing the mass of primary silicon. When the current density was 5.0×105 A/m2, the overall temperature increase in the alloy was about 90°C regardless of the alloy composition. Adequate silicon atoms recorded the footprint of the electric current in the alloy melt. The flow convection generated by the electric current in the melt during the solidification process resulted in the refinement of primary silicon. The Fe impurity content in alloy refining without the electric current density was 2.16 ppm. However, it decreased to 1.27 ppmw with the application of an electric current density of 5.0×105 A/m2.