Effect of WC particles on the mechanical behavior and machinability of aluminum matrix composites

Abstract

Aluminum-based metal matrix composites are extensively used in applications in many industrial fields, especially in the aviation and automotive industry. The usage rate is increasing day by day. Therefore, it is very important to improve the mechanical properties of the composite structure. For this purpose, in this study, 3, 5, and 7 wt.% tungsten carbide (WC) reinforced aluminum matrix composite material was produced by stir casting method. The mechanical properties (tensile strength, hardness, wear) of the produced composite materials and their effect on machinability were investigated. The machinability process was performed in constant cutting speed, constant cutting depth, three different feed rates (0.05, 0.1, and 0.2 mm·rev−1), and dry environmental conditions. Wear tests were performed on dry sliding conditions, under 25 N load, covering different distances (150, 300, 450, and 600 m). In addition, the microstructure of the composite samples was analyzed using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscope. The phases in the composite material were determined using the X-ray diffraction technique. As a result of the experiments, with the addition of WC particles, the mechanical properties of the materials such as tensile strength, hardness, and wear resistance have increased and the machinability capability has decreased.