Effect of SiC particle size and weight % on mechanical properties of AA7075 SiC composite

Abstract

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) possess high specific strengths and resistance to wear and deformation. Because of these properties, they are needed for automotive and aerospace uses. SiC-reinforced MMCs show good prospective for these uses, but their greater use is hindered by inadequate ductility and fabrication problems. These issues need to be resolved. AA7075 was provided with 10 wt.% and 15 wt.% SiC particle size of 10–20 μm and 20–40 μm by stir casting technique. Composite casting was fabricated. Samples were prepared from these castings. Samples were examined utilizing scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray analyses (EDAX). SiC particle distribution and interaction with AA7075 matrix was studied. Change in hardness and tensile strength due to addition of different wt.% and particle size of SiC particles was also investigated. Microstructures of all four types of AA7075/SiCp composite exhibited uniform SiCp dispersal into AA7075. Hardness enhanced by 10.48% with rise of SiC reinforcement from 5 to 15%. Maximum improvement (9.67%) in tensile strength was seen with the addition of 10 wt.% SiC (10–20 μm) particles. AA7075/SiCp composites will be used in industrial applications requiring high tensile strength along with wear resistance.