A Study on Mechanical Properties of Al-17Si Metal Matrix Composites

Abstract

Aluminum metal matrix composites (MMC) are finding applications in aerospace, automobile and general engineering industries owing to their favourable microstructure and improved mechanical behaviour. Aluminium alloy Al-17Si and Zirconium Silicate (ZrSiO4) composites were obtained by stir casting technique. Four different weight percentages (3,6,9 & 12) of ZrSiO4 particles were added to the base alloy. The specimens were prepared as per ASTM standards and tested. Hardnessproperties of the composite showed an improvement as compared to the alloy without ZrSiO4 additions. From the experiment result it is found that tensile strength of the composite will increase with addition of ZrSiO4 till 3% and thereafter decreases.The present paper highlights the salient features of casting technique and characterization of aluminum alloy Al-17Si and ZrSiO4 metal matrix composite.