Fabrication and Characterization of Aluminium Matrix Composites by High Velocity Oxy-Fuel Thermal Spraying

Abstract

The High Velocity Oxy-fuel (HVOF) spray technique has been used by many researchers to deposit composite coatings, but there is less available literature discussing the fabrication of bulk metal matrix composites by this technique. In the current study, aluminum matrix composites with dispersions of alumina (Al2O3) and silicon carbide (SiC) particulates are fabricated by HVOF spray technique. The study comprises the steps of providing the substrate, preparing a mixed powder comprising a first metal powder as a matrix and a second metal powder comprising a ceramic and selected as reinforcement. The detailed procedures to prepare the bulk by using the same are reported. An in-depth characterization of the composite formed has been performed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Hardness of the composite formed is measured on Vickers microhardness tester. This study showed the possibility of fabricating bulk metal matrix composites of larger size by HVOF spray technique.