Experimental analysis on the mechanical properties of Al6061 based hybrid composite reinforced with silicon carbide, bagasse fly ash and aloe vera ash

Abstract

The demand for low-density automobile components for lightweight automobiles that have less energy consumption has initiated the production of chassis, wheels, bumpers, brakes, and steering using composite materials. This research aimed to fabricate an Al6061-based hybrid composite for automobile components reinforced with 10 wt% silicon carbide and varying aloe vera and bagasse ashes using the stir-casting method. The effects of the composition of reinforcements on the microstructure, hardness and compressive strength of the hybrid composites were assessed. It was found that an increase in bagasse ash and aloe vera ash contents improved the compressive strength. The hybrid composite with 10 wt% bagasse ash and 11 wt% aloe vera ash demonstrated maximum compressive strength of 376.3 MPa. The highest hardness of 91.6 HV was achieved with the hybrid composite having 10 wt% bagasse ash and 11 wt% aloe vera ash. The hardness value of the hybrid composite was increased by 16.27% when compared to a single reinforced Al6061/SiC composite. It was concluded that adding bagasse and aloe vera ashes greatly increased the hardness and compressive strength of Al6061/SiC composite materials. The findings of this research would be useful for automobile component manufacturers.