Comparative analysis of mechanical properties of SiC particle addition on Al6061/Ni and Al6061/Cr metal matrix composites

Abstract

This research paper investigates the mechanical characteristics of Al6061/Nickel (Ni) and Al6061/Chromium (Cr) metal matrix composites (MMCs) with varying proportions of Ni and Cr by weight. The proportions of Ni and Cr range from 0% to 2.7% weight. Experimental results reveal that the optimum mechanical properties are achieved at 1.8% weight for Ni. Subsequently, SiC (silicon carbide) particles are added to Al6061/Ni MMCs at varying weight percentages (0%, 1%, 3%, 5%, and 7%) to evaluate their impact on performance. The study demonstrates that the combination of 1.8% Ni and 7% SiC in Al6061 exhibits the most favorable properties. Tensile test is carried out with ASTM D 3552 standard; Flexural strength is assessed through ASTM D790, Microhardness by ASTM E384, and Impact strength by ASTM D256. Overall, Al6061/Ni MMCs exhibit superior mechanical performance compared to Al6061/Cr MMCs, with Al6061/Cr MMCs excelling in elongation, flexural strength, and impact strength. This investigation confirms that the addition of nickel and chromium to the Al6061 alloy induces structural modifications that enhance its mechanical properties. The findings provide valuable insights for optimizing the design and fabrication of MMCs for various engineering applications.