The Si Particles Morphology in Hypoeutectic Al-Si Casts

Abstract

The article deals with the Si particles morphology study of casts from hypoeutectic aluminium alloys. The morphology, distribution and volume of Si particles in α-matrix influence mechanical properties of casts. It is known that the wear resistance of AlSi surface is affected with the hardness of the primary Si particles, too. Long and brittle Si particles have negative effect on mechanical properties, but small, spherical and evenly distributed particles positive. The Si particles in as cast state were observed in negative morphology and so the heat treatment and modification were used for affecting the morphology of Si particles in hypoeutectic casts. The study shows that the best morphology of Si particles was when hypoeutectic casts were heat treated.