Fabrication of Al–WC gradient nano-composite via centrifugal casting method

Abstract

AbstractIn this work, fabrication and characterization of aluminum gradient composites reinforced by nano-particles of tungsten carbide via the centrifugal casting method were studied. In order to prepare a mixture of aluminum and tungsten carbide powders, a high energy planetary ball mill was used. The master-alloy was added to A356 aluminum matrix by horizontal centrifugal casting at different rotation speeds to synthesize Al-5 wt.% WC. The results of X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy analysis confirmed a homogeneous powder in nanometer scale through mechanical milling. Centrifugal casting at speeds of up to 1300 RPM is a suitable method for production of Al–WC gradient nano-composites. By increasing the rotation speed, reinforcement phases are transmitted into the outer layers of cast samples. An agglomeration of hard WC phase leads to improvement of surface hardness and wear resistance.