Optimization of squeeze casting process parameters on mechanical properties of SiCp reinforced LM25 composites through Taguchi technique

Abstract

Abstract The aim of the present work is to examine the influence of processing parameters on fabricated composites of LM25 alloy with SiC particle reinforcement through a squeeze casting technique. The following process parameters, like stirring speed from 550 to 750 rpm, SiCP (4 wt% to 8 wt %), and melting temperatures (from 600 to 700 °C) were employed. Then, the processed composites were subjected to microscopy analysis and mechanical tests to ascertain their metallurgical and mechanical properties. SEM micrographs of an LM 25 composite sample show better bonding of SiC particles with matrix, which is due to homogeneous dispersion of SiC particles in the stir casting process. The maximum tensile strength (211 MPa) and hardness (91 Hv) were achieved on the composite samples with processing parameters of 750 rpm stirring speed, 8% SiC proportions, and 650 °C melting temperature, respectively. From the design of the experiment by the Taguchi method, it is observed that the stirring speed plays a significant role in achieving a better distribution of SiC particles in the composite samples than other parameters like SiC weight ratios and the melting temperature of the alloy.