Mechanical and Wear Behavior of Aluminum-Garnet-Carbon Chill Cast Hybrid Composites

Abstract

Objectives: In recent years, the demand of high performance, light-weight materials is being increased in automotive and aircraft industrial applications to achieve fuel economy. Methods: In the present work chill cast aluminum alloy matrix hybrid composites having 3 to 12 wt% of garnet in steps of 3 wt% and constant 3 wt% of Carbon, subject to different chilling materials have been developed to study the effect of chilling on microstructure, mechanical properties and dry sliding wear behavior of the composite samples. Metallic and nonmetallic chills were used to study the mechanical and tribological behavior of the samples and compared the same with non-chill cast specimens. The specimens taken from chill end of the casting were tested for their, hardness, tensile strength, fracture and wear behavior. Findings: Out of the results, copper chill is found to be good in improving mechanical properties because of its high Volumetric Heat Capacity (VHC). SEM was used to examine microstructural characterization and worn surfaces of the composite samples. Further, directional cooling with copper chill improves the wear resistance and mechanical behavior of the composites. Application/Improvements: Copper chill cast aluminum alloy hybrid composite reinforced with 9 wt% garnet and 3 wt% carbon exhibits better mechanical and tribological behavior and can be used in manufacturing piston in automobile applications. Keywords: Aluminum Hybrid, Copper Chill, Garnet, Stir Cast, Wear