Structure and Mechanical properties of SiC_P Reinforced and Al₂O_3P Reinforced Al-Si alloy Composites

The production of Particle reinforced Metal Matrix Composite (PMMC) using Stir Casting has been improved with the results of cold model study in developing a better composite. Aluminum-Silicon alloys of near eutectic composition (12% Silicon by weight) and Hypereutectic (17% Silicon by weight) were the matrix materials used. The two matrix materials were processed under identical conditions using two different reinforcements Silicon Carbide (SiC_P) and Aluminium Oxide (Al₂O_3P) in particulate form with 0, 5, 7.5 & 10 Vol%. The cast PMMC's have been subjected to Micro structural examination, Hardness, Impact resistance and also an attempt has been made to apply the Diametral compression test to measure the Compressive fracture strength, Tensile strength & Modulus of elasticity. The developed stir casting technique has lead to satisfactory distribution of SiC_P & Al₂O_3P reinforcement particles in matrix phases. Inclusion of reinforcement particles in the alloys significantly influenced the mechanical properties. Mechanical Properties of SiC_P reinforced Al-Si alloys were superior than corresponding Al₂O_3P reinforced alloys.