Characterization of aluminium-silicon carbide metal matrix composites (original) (raw)

Metal matrix composites are composite materials in which nano or micro-sized particles as reinforcement mixed with other base metals. For producing the desired type of metal matrix composites, need to select an appropriate production method. In the present work, aluminum and silicon-carbide (Al-SiC) based metal matrix composites were prepared by stir casting method. A total of three specimens were prepared, i.e., 0, 2.5, and 5% by weight of Silicon-Carbide, respectively, in aluminum as a base metal. The wear behavior of the composites was analyzed pin on disc machine. Minitab TM software was used for the design of experiments (DoE) and ANOVA analysis. Hardness, compression, and density analysis were also carried out, showing different specimens' actual behavior under different conditions. The maximum value of wear loss is observed at two conditions: one for 0% type and another for 5% type. Minimum wear rate is found for 0% type of specimen for 50 N load and 500 m sliding distance. Maximum is at 0% type of specimen for 100 N load and 1500 m sliding distance. Minimum specific wear rate is found for 0% type of specimen at 150 N load for 2500 m sliding distance and maximum at 100 N load and 500 m sliding distance for 5% type of specimen. As the percentage of filler material (% of silicon-carbide) increases the hardness of material increases. The highest BHN found is 254 for 5% type of specimen. As the percentage of filler material increases, compressive strength increases