Optimization of Hardness and Tensile Strength of Stir Cast Hybrid Aluminum Metal Matrix Composite Using Grey Relational Analysis

Abstract

Hybrid aluminum metal matrix composites (AMMCs) possess properties such as lightweight, high performance, high wear, and corrosion resistance. This research paper represents the process to achieve maximum hardness and tensile strength of hybrid AMMCs with the optimization of process characteristics using grey relational analysis (GRA). Hybrid AMMCs of Al-6061 alloy reinforced with graphene (Gr) and silicon carbide (Sic) were fabricated using the stir-casting process. Taguchi's L27 design was selected for the experiment and GRA was used with three process parameters (Stirring speed, graphene wt %, and silicon carbide wt %) to obtain the optimal set of these parameters for the highest hardness and tensile strength. The optimum values of hardness and tensile strength have been observed as 105.098 VHN and 118.072 MPa, respectively. The optimal combination was achieved at 400 stirring speed, 6 wt. % of graphene, and 4 wt. % of silicon carbide as reinforcement in Al-6061 alloy.