The Effect of Forging and SiC Particles Fraction on the Mechanical Properties of Al 6082 / SiCp Composites

Abstract

In this paper the effect of percentage of SiC particles (SiCp) on the mechanical behaviour of Al 6082 alloys were studied. Three different fractions of SiCp (5%, 10% & 20% by %wt) in the cast and forged conditions were considered. The samples were fabricated by stir casting technique. The characteristics of the samples were studied by optical microscopy, porosity, hardness and tensile test. The results show that secondary fabrication process – forging, reduces porosity, increases hardness and tensile strength of the matrix and the reinforced alloy. The grain distribution is refined in the matrix due to forging. The presence of porosity adversely affects the fracture behaviour. The change in mechanical properties may be attributed to the changes in the microstructure of the matrix and the composites material.