Microstructure evaluation, thermal and mechanical characterization of hybrid metal matrix composite

Abstract

AbstractIn this paper, an inert gas assisted electromagnetic stir casting process is adapted for manufacturing a cast hybrid metal matrix composite (MMC) using Al2O3 and SiC particulates as a hard phase reinforcement in Al 7075 alloy metal matrix. Four different samples containing 5, 10, 15 and 20 wt% of Al2O3 and SiC with Al 7075 alloy composites were fabricated. The characterizations for all the samples were carried out through optical microstructure, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) fractograph, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, differential thermal analysis (DTA) analysis and mechanical properties. The results revealed that the particles are uniformly distributed in the matrix. No peaks of Al4C3 were found. There is negligible loss of material in the composite. The tensile strength and microhardness of the hybrid composite are higher by 65.7% and 13.5%, respectively, when compared to its cast metal matrix Al 7075 alloy.