Processing and characterization of AA6082/TiC composites by stir casting

Abstract

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) play a major role in materials science, particularly in the field of aerospace, marine, transportation, military and structural applications. They are used mainly in a relatively high temperature and wear resistance applications. Among MMCs, aluminum matrix composite (AMC), reinforced with titanium carbide, has better potential for high-temperature applications. Production of AMC has been carried out using various methods. The present study focuses on the fabrication of aluminum (6082-T6) matrix composites (AMCs), reinforced with titanium carbide particulates, using stir casting route. The composite was successfully fabricated with the addition of 5 and 10% TiC particles. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the fabricated AMCs have been analyzed. The optical microstructure and scanning electron microscope images reveal homogeneous dispersion of titanium carbide particles in the matrix. The mechanical properties such as tensile strength, microhardness and wear resistance show improvement with the increase in weight per cent of titanium carbide particulates in the aluminum matrix.