Achieving Exceptional Mechanical and Tribological Properties of Metal Matrix Composites through Stir Casting Followed by Cryorolling

Abstract

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) are treated as potential engineering material for many industrial applications. The consideration given to MMCs continues to increase owing to its sound mechanical properties, such as high specific strength and excellent corrosion and wear resistance. From an industrial viewpoint, it is essential to know the capacity of MMCs to undergo secondary processing. This study elucidates the influence of cryorolling on the microstructure, mechanical properties and wear behaviour of various aluminium-based MMCs. In particular, the aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) produced through the stir casting route undergo an additional cryorolling process in order to enhance their tensile and wear resistance properties. This type of hybrid manufacturing has gained attention because of its excellent results in producing a successful structural member. This chapter deals with the fabrication of ex-situ Al-based composites produced through stir casting followed by cryorolling. Further, the influence of particle size, volume fraction of particles and the influence of the cryorolling process on microstructure, wear and tensile behaviour are emphasized. This information can be a basis to further promote the possibilities of this hybrid manufacturing and widen its potential applications.