Microstructure and characterization of Al 6082 alloy with addition of ZrSiO4 and TiC reinforcements

Abstract

Aluminium hybrid composites are new generations of metal matrix composites (thermal conductivity and ductility) that have the potential to satisfy the recent demands of advanced engineering applications. Aluminium 6082 has a wide application in the field of military, marine and aerospace industries. Due to its corrosion resistant properties and significant tensile strength, this alloy proved itself as an excellent alloy for marine ships and other applications. But due to its low hardness and wear resistance values, it’s applications in marine are limited. Hence a process is needed to increase its hardness and wear resistance. In the present study, AL –MMC has been fabricated by mixing the 5-10% ZrSiO4 (very strong, malleable, ductile) and 5% TiC (improving conductivity, corrosion resistance property) reinforcement into the Al6082 aluminium alloy matrix. Stir casting method has been adopted for the fabrication of MMC. Three prepared casted MMC has been characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The physical property (density) and mechanical properties (hardness test, tensile test, wear test) and impact test and flexural test have been measured for fabricated MMC. The wear resistance, refractoriness and hardness property of the fabricated MMC tend to be improved with the increase in the ZrSiO4 and Tic reinforcement percentage.