Influence of friction stir processing parameters on Mg ZE 41-SiC surface composite

Abstract

In this study, the influence of friction stir processing process parameters (FSP), such as tool rotational speed, tool traverse speed, and the tool tilt angle on the mechanical properties of Sic reinforced surface magnesium rare earth ZE41 alloy composite was studied. The process was carried at tool rotational speeds of 710, 900, 1120, 1600, 1400 and 1800 rpm, tool traverse speeds of 16, 25, 40 and 63 mm/min and tool tilt angle of degree 1. Nano-particles of SiC (40 microns) were used as reinforcements to produce a composite surface. The grain refinement of the processed specimens was analyzed using scanning electron microscope. It is observed from the results that FSP process parameters influenced the surface composite area, SiC particles distribution and micro hardness of the composite. The outcomes indicated that the higher micro hardness was obtained at rotational speed of 1100 RPM, traverse speed 40mm/min and tilt angle 10.