Stir Casting Process Research Articles

Characterization of the Aluminum Matrix Composite Reinforced with Silicon Nitride (AA8011/Si3N4) Synthesized by the Stir Casting Route

Abstract: The result of different volume % of Silicon Nitride (Si3N4) in AA 8011 alloy fabricated through stir casting process & then tested for hardness, wear test. Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) of these samples are done. It is found that the highest hardness and wear strength can be obtained with the addition of 80 μm particle size of Si3N4 with 6% of its total volume fraction. This increase in the properties is due to the increase in density caused by the addition of Si3N4 reinforcement particles. SEM study also shows that the distribution of Si3N4 with the matrix material. The maximum hardness is obtained at 40.7 HV in sample 04 having 6% of Silicon Nitride (Si3N4) and 94% of Aluminium Alloy 8011, Similarly, maximum wear is recorded in the sample having 6% of Silicon Nitride (Si3N4) and 94% of Aluminium Alloy 8011when the load is 4kg and RPM is 1800.

The impact of zirconia nanoparticles on the mechanical characteristics of 7075 aluminum alloy

Abstract In numerous engineering applications, metal matrix composites strengthened by ceramic particles have played an important role. For this purpose, an aluminum (Al 7075) nanocomposite has been fabricated, and nano-zirconium oxide of particle size 40 nm (0, 0.8, 1.6, and 2.4) wt% reinforced Al 7075 alloy was produced using a stir-casting process. The effect of ZrO2 NPs loading on mechanical properties along with the detailed characterization were demonstrated. The performance of Al with ZrO2 nanocomposite was investigated by Vickers hardness tester, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray, compression test, Lee’s disc, and Shore D instruments were utilized to determine the hardness, structural morphology, composition of the elements, Young’s modulus, thermal conductivity, and roughness values of the samples, respectively. The hardness (120.3–177) HV, compression strength (624.2–878.6) MPa, yield modulus (38–70) MPa, surface roughness (0.876–0.606) µm, thermal conductivity (2.0–2.39) W/m2 °C improved by increasing the wt% of ZrO2 NP reinforcement particles. The implication of these findings shows that 5 wt% nano-ZrO2-reinforced Al 7075 composites yielded better performance than pure Al 7075 alloy. To sum up, this investigation demonstrated that the ZrO2 reinforcement enhanced the mechanical properties of Al 7075.

Improvement on the wire EDM characteristics of zirconia filled Al7050 (Al-Zn-Cu-Mg) alloy composite using Taguchi coupled TOPSIS method

Wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM) is an cutting edge non-traditional techniques for producing complicated 3D forms in rigid materials with greater dimensional accuracy. The aim of the investigation was, to predict the WEDM characteristics of ZrO2 ceramic addition of Al7050 alloy composite by employing Taguchi coupled Technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) approach. The work material was manufactured by stir casting process utilizing 12 wt.% of ZrO2 particulates in Al7050 alloy matrix. The experimental work was carried out as per the L9 (33) orthogonal array design by taking input parameters like pulse current ( Ip), pulse on-time ( Ton) and pulse off-time ( Toff), respectively. The impact of the WEDM parameters on the material removal rate (MRR) and surface roughness (SR) were determined by analysis of variance (ANOVA). Based on the TOPSIS approach, the higher MRR (0.32251 g/min) with lesser SR (3.982 µm) were achieved at the ‘ Ip’ of 25 amps, ‘ Ton’ of 115 µs and ‘ Toff’ of 60 µs. ANOVA results explored that the ‘ Ton’ was identified as the primary impact factor on MRR and SR, subsequently by ‘ Ip’ and ‘ Toff’ with contribution of 44.23%, 36.53%, and 12.16%, respectively. Moreover, the surface topography of the machined composite surface was analyzed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was clearly revealed the formation of surface defects such as craters, micropores, cracks and also the appearance of a recast layer on the machined surface.

Synthesis, characterization, and mechanical properties of Al–Zn–Mg alloy-based hybrid metal matrix composites reinforced with Si3N4/TiB2 particles processed through stir casting technique

In this study, the microstructural and mechanical properties of Al-Si3N4/TiB2 hybrid reinforced composites are examined. The aim is to investigate the impact of a novel combination of reinforcements (Si3N4/TiB2) on the mechanical behavior of hybrid metal matrix composites (HMMCs). The composites are produced by adding a fixed amount of Si3N4 (4 wt.%) and 2, 4, and 6 wt.% of TiB2, respectively, into molten AA7075 aluminum alloy using a liquid state stir casting process. The physical and mechanical properties of fabricated HMMCs are determined through the measurement of density, porosity, tensile strength, Brinell hardness, flexural, and impact strength. The microstructural study of HMMCs reveals a consistent distribution of microparticles within the matrix. Evidence of reinforcement particles in the HMMCs is confirmed through field emission scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis. The fabricated HMMCs with 4 wt.% Si3N4 and 6 wt.% TiB2 particulates demonstrated the greatest strength among others. The ultimate tensile strength, Brinell hardness, and flexural strength are improved by 59.36%, 95.59%, and 49.33%, respectively, compared to the base Al-Zn-Mg alloy. However, the increment in strength of HMMCs comes with the tradeoff of reduced ductility and impact resistance measured through the percentage elongation and energy absorbed by the samples.

Tribological Behavior of SiC and Al2O3 Reinforced Aluminium Metal Matrix Composite

Stir casting offers greater benefits than other techniques for creating metal matrix composites. Using the high-energy stir casting process, the aluminium alloy Al5052 was strengthened with SiC and Al2O3 particles in varied weight percentages (0, 2, 4, and 6 wt.%). Through the use of XRD and SEM, the structural characterization was carried out. Investigations were made into mechanical characteristics such as hardness, tensile strength, and wear. To conduct wear studies, the load was changed while all other factors remained constant. SEM analysis was used to study the wear process. This study found that SiC and Al2O3 added to aluminium composites made them more resistant to wear. The findings demonstrated that when compared to base materials, the percentage of SiC and Al2O3 contained in the samples enhanced the mechanical characteristics, wear resistance, and hardness.

Study on Mechanical Behaviour of Al-15Si-10Zn/x ZrO2 Composites Synthesized by Stir Cast Method

In this research, the microstructure and mechanical properties of Al-15Si-10Zn-xZrO2 (x = 5, 7 and 10 wt.%) composites synthesized by the stir-casting process have been investigated. The matrix and composite samples were characterized using an X-ray diffraction test (XRD) and their microstructures were studied using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The microstructure of different phases was analyzed using energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The microstructure of the Al-15Si-10Zn/ZrO2 composites consisted of coarse primary Si, needlelike eutectic Si, and Zn-rich phases, with ZrO2 reinforcement particles distributed homogeneously in the composites. The micro-hardness and tensile properties of the matrix and composites were determined at room temperature. The results show significant improvements in the micro-hardness and tensile strength of the composites compared to the matrix alloy. The micro-hardness of the stir-cast composites increased by 24%, 44%, and 58% in the 5, 7, and 10 wt% ZrO2 reinforcement composites, respectively. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the 5, 7, and 10 wt% ZrO2 composites increased by 17%, 30%, and 44%, respectively, compared to the matrix alloy. The increased content of ZrO2 resulted in an increase in hardness, ultimate tensile and yield strengths and a decrease in ductility.

Investigations on the microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of novel Al 6061/7075–granite–SiC metal matrix composites fabricated through two-stage stir casting

This study aims to explore the untapped potential of scrap granite particles as reinforcement to enhance the performance of monolithic Al alloy. Through a two-stage stir casting process, the aluminium alloy matrix (AA6061/AA7075) is reinforced with waste granite particles (GP) (5 wt.% and 2 wt.%) and silicon carbide (SiC) (2 wt.%). The microstructural, mechanical and tribological properties of aluminium-based single and hybrid reinforced composites are investigated using ASTM standards. Microstructural characterisation, including optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), confirms the presence of grain refinement and microstructural strain in the composites. The tensile, hardness, impact energy and wear resistance properties of M2 (AA6061, 2 wt.% GP) and Z1 (AA7075, 2 wt.% SiC) composites surpassed those of M1 (AA6061, 5 wt.% GP) and Z2 (AA7075, 2 wt.% SiC, 2 wt.% GP) composites, underscoring their enhanced performance. M2 composite demonstrates a significant 14.97% increase in hardness and a precise 0.82% increase in tensile strength compared to M1. Similarly, the Z1 composite showcases a remarkable 50.1% improvement in hardness and 22.2% enhancement in tensile strength compared to their respective counterpart (Z2). SEM-based fractography analysis of tensile and impact test specimens revealed the presence of dimples, cleavage facets, river lines, intergranular cracks and disbonding, offering valuable insights into the failure mode. Furthermore, the worn surfaces exhibited wear mechanisms involving abrasion and adhesion-delamination. The utilisation of granite particles as reinforcement in these composites resulted in significantly improved properties, positioning them as a promising alternative for future sustainable materials.

Investigation of machining characteristics and surface integrity for trim cut WEDM of hybrid metal matrix composite [Al 6061, SiC, and TiB2

This study is focused on fabrication of Hybrid Al6061/SiC + TiB2 MMC by stir casting process, primarily to study the effect of two different reinforcement particles on mechanical properties and microstructure. Additionally, the assessment of surface integrity has been attempted after machining the composite by trim cut WEDM process. Five samples have been fabricated with varied weight fraction of SiC and TiB2 reinforcement, keeping total weight percentage of reinforcement particles fixed to 10%. It is observed that Hybrid MMC with composition Al6061 (90%), SiC (2.5%), and TiB2 (7.5%) shows better mechanical properties which is corroborated by both the optical microscopy and SEM. A screening experiment has been designed using fold over fractional factorial technique (with resolution IV), to investigate the parametric effects on surface integrity features, i.e., surface roughness, spark gap, and recast layer for trim cut WEDM operation. Peak current (Ip) and pulse on time (Ton) have been found to be the significant parameters for spark gap as well as surface roughness. It is observed that the trim cut operation improved the surface roughness and reduced it to 2.2 µm from 3.93 µm (after rough cut). Recast layer has been reduced to a value of 4.67 µm after trim operation, from 24.6 µm for rough cut. These findings suggest that trim cut strategy is very effective in improving the surface integrity of the rough-cut machined samples. It is also observed that thickness of recast layer is directly proportional to the discharge energy during trim cutting.

Large scale production of graphene aluminum composites by stir casting: Process, microstructure and properties

Graphene has recently garnered significant attention as an exceptional nanofiller for aluminum (Al) matrix composites due to its remarkable mechanical strength, elevated thermal and electrical conductivities. For practical industrial applications, it is necessary to develop large-scale production technology. To this end, we have utilized a scalable stir-casting process to fabricate graphene-reinforced aluminum matrix composites. The microstructure, mechanical properties, electrical and thermal conductivities of the composites with varying graphene contents were characterized. Through testing, it was confirmed that graphene remained intact within the aluminum matrix during the stir-casting process, and the damage to the graphene sheet during the fabrication of composites was slight. High-resolution microscopic observation shows that aluminum, graphene and aluminum carbide co-exist within the composites. Compared to its pure aluminum counterpart, the Vickers hardness of the optimal composite sample (with a graphene content of 0.2 wt.%) exhibits a significant increase of 42%. Also, this superior composite sample exhibits a remarkable increase of 5% and 38% in its electrical and thermal conductivities respectively. The performance evolution and improvement mechanisms have been thoroughly investigated and revealed. The test results suggest that preformed blocks and stir casting are promising technologies for the large-scale production of graphene-aluminum composites.

Morphology of Al-2.5%Mg/xSiCp Composite developed by Stir Casting Process

. The research was conducted to enhance and solve the issues associated with low wettability and insufficient bonding between aluminum and silicon carbide that usually associated with stir casting process. The study used magnesium, heat treatment of SiCp and metallic (SiO2) coating on SiCp for improved Al-SiCp wettability in the manufacture of composite. The wt.% of SiCp was varied from 5 wt.% to 20 wt.% (uncoated and coated) at 5 wt.% intervals. The characterization conducted are XRD, XRF and SEM on the samples developed. XRD plots confirmed existence of Al with major peaks at 38.5, 45.11, 65.35, and 78.31; while Mg and SiCp were seen at 34.82 and 60.78 respectively. The XRF analysis revealed that major elements are within the range proposed for research with Alumina contains the highest amount of 70.05 – 86.69 wt.%, followed by Magnesium with 2.46 - 2.57 wt.%, and silicon having varying values of 0.91 wt.% for Sample A, 5.91 – 21.01 wt.% for uncoated samples B – E, and higher values of 8.43 – 24.43 wt.% for Samples F – I compared to the control sample, while all other minerals present are in such negligible proportion. The SEM/EDS results showed a fair dispersion of the SiCp particles in the samples with weight percentages of Al between 54.3 – 72.7 wt.%, Mg with 2.33 wt.% for control sample and a higher of values of 3.90 – 8.22 wt.% for composite samples, and Si with 0.10 – 1.32wt.%. Owning to this best performance test results, the coated Al-2.5%Mg/10wt%SiCp (Sample G) may be adopted as an alternate monolithic alloy to the existing AlMn, AlMg and AlMgSi alloys for structural, heavy machineries and marine applications where light weight is required.

Neural Network Approach on Influence of Ceramics on Dry Sliding Wear in Al-Cu-Zr Metal Matrix Composite

This research aims to investigate the dry sliding wear behavior of Al-Cu-Zr (ACZ) metal matrix composite (MMC) at various Aluminium oxide (AOX) Nano particles compostion. ACZ alloy is widely used in on road and space mobility applications where the focus is on wear resistance. To enhance the resistance towards wear, Al alloy is reinforced with AOX nanoparticles at 3%, 6%, and 9% addition using stir casting process. The wear assessment is conducted at varying Composition (COMP), load (LD), speed (Ns), and sliding distance (SLDN). The wear rate (WRT) and Frictional force (FRFC) are analysed for different process parameters. To optimize the experiments, Taguchi signal-to-noise ratio (STNR) is used. Taguchi analysis show that the optimal conditions for minimum WRT and FRFC are at 6% AOX addition, 12.5 N load, 500 rpm speed, and 35 mm SLDN. Furthermore, an artificial neural network model (ANNM) is developed to forecast the WRT and FRFC. The neural network model is trained using the experimental data and the optimized process parameters. The neural network is a powerful tool that can learn the complex relationship between input and output variables. The model is validated using the experimental data, and the results show that the neural network model can predict the WRT and coefficient of friction with high accuracy. The Taguchi optimization and neural network model can provide a systematic approach to optimizing the process parameters and predicting the WRT and coefficient of friction. This approach can be applied to other materials and processes to improve their performance and reduce costs.

Multi-Objective Optimization for the Sustainable Machining of Metal Matrix Composites Using Wire Electric Discharge Machining

Wire Electrical Discharge Machining (WEDM) is an electrothermal machining process used to produce complex profiles electrically conductive materials. In this investigation, multiobjective optimization using hybrid approach of Taguchi method (TM) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) has been performed to find the optimal input process parameters like pulse-on time ([Formula: see text]), pulse-off time ([Formula: see text]), peak current (I), wire speed (WS) for output parameters, namely, cutting velocity (CV), power consumption (PC), and surface roughness (SR). Three different Aluminum based Metal Matrix Composites (AMMC) were fabricated using three different reinforcements i.e. 10[Formula: see text]wt.% Aluminum Oxide (Al2O3), 10[Formula: see text]wt.% Silicon Carbide (SiC), and combining 5[Formula: see text]wt.% Al2O3 with 5[Formula: see text]wt.% SiC through the stir casting process. The experiments were conducted based on the L9 orthogonal array approach of Taguchi methodology and regression equations were developed based on the experimental data for the prediction of output parameters. The results of analysis of variance (ANOVA) shows that WS and I are the two most significant factors for CV of all three developed composites whereas for SR, [Formula: see text] and I play critical role. The optimal results show that for machining of Al6061/Al2O3 and Al6061/SiC optimal input parameters are [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]s, [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]s, [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]A, and [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m/s. For hybrid MMC (Al6061/Al2O3/SiC), optimized input parameters are [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]s, [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]s, [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]A, and [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m/s. At optimal input parameters though the CV decreases by 1.53% the PC and SR decreases by 8.95% and 15.47%, respectively, in case of hybrid composite. The machined surface at optimal input parameters were examined by the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). This study will help to identify the input parameters for sustainable machining of AMMC for different reinforcements with WEDM.

Mechanical and metallurgical characterization of B4C and SiC reinforced stir casted AA6061 hybrid MMC

The present work was the novel investigation of mechanical and metallurgical characteristics of stir casted AA6061 based metal matrix composites (MMC) and hybrid MMCs. The reinforcements utilized in the investigation were silicon carbide and boron carbide. The thirteen stir casted MMC and hybrid MMC samples were tested for ultimate tensile strength, microhardness, fractography and wear performance. The stir casting process had enhanced the reinforcement distribution within the aluminium matrix. The enhancement in ultimate tensile strength was observed due to the addition of reinforcements in increasing weight percentages with the hybrid MMC exhibiting peak ultimate strength which was a 32.17% improvement against the non-reinforced AA6061 alloy. The formation of reinforcement particulates had enhanced microhardness of the specimens with the peak microhardness observed for boron carbide reinforced MMC exhibiting microhardness 25.41% higher than the base alloy. The hybrid MMC exhibited ductile fracture with highest elongation corresponding to the highest ultimate tensile strength. The wear performance analysis revealed reduced wear rates for the particulate reinforced specimen with highest weight percentage of reinforcements.

Tribological performance of the aluminium based syntactic foams – Influence of sliding distance

In the paper presented, the Syntactic foams were made by the process of stir casting and were analysed for their performance in tribology. Study was done at microscopic level to analyse the quality of the samples prepared and the results produced showed that the stir casting process helps in producing rational dispersal. The distance of sliding varied from ranges between 500 m and 2000 m at a constant load of 25 N and sliding speed of 640 RPM. The results indicated that the rate of wear was found slightly higher after some distance when it was compared with the results in the initial stages. The reason behind this might include hard and sharp surface asperities. When the asperities in the starting stages wore off, the subsequent wearing required some significant amount of energy. The friction coefficient remained same even after the sliding distance was growing. In order to observe the worn surfaces to define wear mechanisms, the scanning electron micrographs were studied.

Investigation on the performance of wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM) using aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) micro-channel

This study focuses on microchannel fabrication of Al-10% SiC composite using Wire-EDM process with the applications of single variable and multi variable, optimization. This work was targeted keeping in considerations the wider scope of microchannel applications in the fields such as medical, aerospace, automobile, etc. In this research work, the experiment was conducted to achieve high precision and quality surface finish in terms of minimum surface roughness (SR), high material removal rate (MRR), low tool wear rate (TWR) and optimum spark gap (SG). The used experiments were design on the basis of Taguchi design of experiment approach. Four input process parameters were considered namely, pulse on time (Ton), sparking voltage (SV), wire tension (WT), and wire feed rate (WFR). For the experimentation task, the workpeice (Aluminum and silicon carbide (10% Wt SiCmicro)) material, in a desired shape was fabricated through stir casting process. The tool electrode applied for the experiment purpose had specification as, 0.25 mm diameter brass alloy wire (copper 63 percent and zinc 37 percent). For single variable optimization ANOVA (analysis of variance) was applied while as, for multi variables optimization, grey relational analysis (GRA) was applied. The results of the study indicated that, on the basis of single variable optimization, the highest contribution of Ton resulted in case of the performance measures, MRR and SR while as, for TWR and SG, the highest contribution of sparking voltage, observed. Furthermore, the findings of the study indicated that, on the basis of multi variables optimization, the optimal combination of input process parameters is, pulse on time 125 μs, sparking voltage 10 volt, wire tension 12 kgf, and wire feed rate 4 m min−1. These results also get support from the previous research works. The findings of this study be useful for microchannel manufacturing and other related industrial applications.

Novel Algebraic Matrix Method Used to Generate Linear Equation for Surface Roughness and Material Removal Rate during Wet/Dry Turning Operation on MMCs Al6061-T6/SiC

Stir casting process is well known for reinforcement of ceramic particle in aluminium. Due to improved properties of Al6061-T6/SiC particulate metal matrix composites have attracted by industry as well as received wider attention of material expertise. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the turning process parameters through algebraic matrix which is unique approach. Also studied effects of spindle speed, feed, SiC silicon carbide-3% and 6%, depth of cut and nose radius on modifier element for instance surface roughness Ra and material removal rate MRR in both dry and wet condition. In addition to optimize the turning process parameters are on Al6061-T6/SiC 3% and 6% with a coated tungsten tool. The experimental runs are designed using the taguchi based multiple factorial design DOE and their outcomes are analyzed using Analysis of Variance ANOVA. Mathematical models are established using algebraic matrix to represent the relationship among turning process parameters as independent variables, surface roughness and material removal rate as dependent variables. For every experimental run, a same cutting insert was used to encourage accurate reporting of the surface roughness and material removal rate. The statistical variations revealed that the main effect of spindle speed, feed, SiC silicon carbide-3% and 6%, depth of cut and nose radius are influenced the surface roughness and material removal rate. Moreover, Built-up-edge BUE formation was observed at every combinations of machining parameters such as spindle speed, feed, SiC silicon carbide-3% and 6%, depth of cut and nose radius which affected the surface quality negatively. The proximity of predicted results and experimental results provide proof that the algebraic matrix – DOE method has successfully established the predictive models. It is strongly suggested SiC silicon carbide 3% and 6% are successfully reinforced in Al6061 as well as optimize turning process parameters in wet condition than dry condition. Mathematical models for surface roughness and material removal rate are found to be statistically significant in wet condition.

Synthesis and characteristics evaluation of magnesium alloy (AZ91) nanocomposite developed with ZrO2 via liquid state stir cast process

Synthesis and characteristics evaluation of magnesium alloy (AZ91) nanocomposite developed with ZrO2 via liquid state stir cast process

Biodegradable implant application: Electrodeposition of HA/TiO2/ZrO2 coating onto Zn-composite substrates

Zinc has currently emerged as a promising biodegradable metal due to its good biocompatible property and promising degradation behaviour. Additionally, inadequate mechanical strength and a lower cell viability value fall short of what is needed for biodegradable implants. In this work, we used the stir-casting process to create a biodegradable Zn-1Mg-1Cu-1HA (ZHA) and Zn-1Mg-1Cu-1ZrO2 (ZZR) composite onto which ceramics composite coating is done by electrodeposition technique to enhance the biocompatibility. The as-cast sample has uniformly distributed fine MgZn2 and CuZn2 phases in a α-Zn matrix, according to microstructural analysis. The mechanical test confirms that ZZR composite exhibited high tensile and compressive properties, including compressive yield strength of 369.562 MPa, a yield tensile strength of 88.725 MPa and ultimate tensile strength of 116.21 MPa. The result of potentiodynamic polarization test shows that the coated ZZR composite sample gives a corrosion rate value of 0.112 mm/year. From immersion tests, the degradation rate obtained a much lower value after immersing the sample in PBS solution for 55 days (0.067 mm/year). Moreover, an extract of coated ZZR composite shows good cell viability in comparison to the uncoated sample at a concentration of 25%, 50% and 75%. Also, the hemolysis percentage for coated ZZR sample is lower than the other prepared uncoated sample (3.072%) Overall, the result obtained proves that the coated ZZR composite sample can be expected as a capable material for implant application.

Processing and Characterization of AA2618/Sicp Metal Matrix Composites by Stir Casting Method

The future performance requirements of aero-engines must have improved thrust to weight ratios, reduced SFC and reduced signatures. Current materials technology within aero engines will restrict the thermodynamic cycle improvements and thus new materials and manufacturing techniques must be developed if the predicted improvements in engine performance will be due to material technology. The potential of metal matrix composite (MMC) materials for significant improvement in performance over conventional alloys have been recognized widely. However, their manufacturing costs are still relatively high. A critical step in the processing of cast particle reinforced MMCs is the incorporation of the ceramic particles into the molten matrix alloy. Therefore, wettability of the reinforcement particle by the matrix alloy must be optimized even though some of the methods are expensive and complex and some are cheap and simple technique. In order to produce 2618/SiCp MMC with maximum yield, two types of mixing i.e. liquid state and semi-solid state mixings have been introduced in the stir casting process with the support of process parameters from literatures. The process parameters utilized in each trial and results obtained in these processes are also highlighted. The density, hardness and tensile properties obtained in both the mixing processes are discussed. The study is carried out to assess the behaviour of AA2618/SiCp MMC for the fabrication of compressor blade.

Experimental investigation on mechanical properties of TiB2 reinforced AA6061 metal matrix composites fabricated by stir casting process

As the need for lightweight constructions rises in everyday life, metal matrix composites (MMCs) made of aluminum are used in a range of fields, including sports equipment, automotive, aerospace, and defense. Stir casting technique is the most often utilized commercially in industries among the several ways to create metal matrix composites based on aluminium because it is a quick and inexpensive process. In the present study, lightweight AA6061-TiB2 composites with varied levels (0, 1.5, 3 and 4.5 wt%) of reinforcement were created using the stir casting procedure. Microstructure and mechanical properties of the specimens were studied. The microstructure studies revealed the distribution of black Mg2Si particles along with Al-Mg-Si eutectic in alpha aluminium matrix along with of fine and small TiB2 particulates. The hardness as well as tensile characteristics of composites were dramatically improved by the addition of TiB2 particles.