Microstructure, Mechanical Properties (Strength and Hardness) and Wear Behavior of Chilled Aluminum Alloy (LM-13) Reinforced with Titanium Carbide (TiC) Metal Matrix Composites

Abstract

This paper deals with the production of aluminum alloy (LM-13) reinforced with titanium carbide (TiC) chilled composites subject to different chilling rates to study the effect of chilling on microstructure, mechanical and tribological behavior. Metallic and non-metallic chills (25 mm thick) were used in this investigation. The specimens taken from casting blocks were tested for their microstructure, strength, hardness and wear behavior. It was found in the present investigation that chilling rate and addition of TiC reinforcement (3 to 12 wt% in steps of 3 wt%) have improved both mechanical properties (strength and hardness) and wear resistance of the composite developed. Out of the chills used, copper chill was found to be good in improving mechanical properties because of its high Volumetric Heat Capacity (VHC). It is concluded from the above investigation that type of chill and hence chilling rate, reinforcement content have an effect on mechanical properties wear behavior.