Characterization of Silicon Carbide Particulate Reinforced AA6061 Aluminum Alloy Composites Produced via Stir Casting

Abstract

Stir casting is an economical method to produce aluminum matrix composites (AMCs). In the present work, Aluminum alloy AA6061 reinforced with various amounts (0, 5, 10 and 15 wt. %) of SiC particles were prepared. The matrix alloy was melted in a furnace and stirred to form a vortex. SiC particles were added to the periphery of the vortex and the composite melt was solidified in a permanent mold. The microstructures of the AMCs were studied using optical and scanning electron microscopy. SiC particles were observed to refine the grains and were distributed homogeneously in the aluminum matrix. SiC particle clusters were also seen in a few places. SiC particles were properly bonded to the aluminum matrix. The reinforcement of SiC particles improved the microhardness and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the AMCs. The details of fracture morphology are also presented in this paper.