Correlation between SDAS and mechanical properties of Al–Si alloy made in Sand and Slag moulds

Abstract

Investigations have been carried out to evaluate the correlations between microstructure and mechanical properties of cast products made by Ferro chrome (Fe-Cr) slag and Granulated Blast Furnace (GBF) slag moulds in tune with silica sand moulds. A356 alloy castings were performed on all these three moulds with cylindrical pattern. The obtained castings were evaluated for its metallurgical and mechanical properties at as cast and peak ageing conditions. In all the castings, improved mechanical properties were noticed in peak ageing condition; further Fe-Cr slag cast products shows enhanced properties than either GBF slag or silica sand mould cast products. Fe-Cr slag mould cast products shows lower SDAS values than rest of the two moulds. Improved mechanical properties were observed with lower SDAS values. Correlations between individual and combined microstructural features with mechanical proprieties were established. Improved and reliable correlations were established by considering combined microstructural features.