Abstract
Metal matrix composite (MMCs) of the base alloy (Al-0.978%Mg-1.03%Si) reinforced
with SiC particles (10 wt %) with particle size (53-106) μm was prepared by stir casting
using vortex technique. Solution heat treatment and aging are carried out at a constant
temperature of 175C° for different aging times. Many inspections and tests such as
microstructure, Vickers hardness and XRD analysis. Wear test type ( Pin – on – Disc) with
various applied loads and different exposure times at constant parameters was carried out
under dry sliding conditions.
It was found that the addition of SiC particles to base alloy improved the hardness and
wear resistance before and after heat treatment (precipitation hardening).
In addition, using SiC particles with alloy matrix resulted in a faster aging response i.e the
time of peak hardness decreased from 8hr to 5hr for base alloy and composite respectively.
These results indicate that the addition of SiC particles to Al –alloy matrix accelerates the
aging kinetic.
Keywords
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