Microstructure and Mechanical Behavior of SiC Reinforced Aluminum Metal Matrix Composites for Automobile Applications

Aluminium metal matrix composites (MMC) are one of the most promising engineering materials being increasingly used in automobile industries for critical applications due to their enhanced mechanical and physical properties. In this present study, A356 aluminum alloy reinforced with SiC particle was made by stir casting process. The effects of different volume fractions of SiC particle reinforcement on microstructure and mechanical properties have been investigated. The yield and fracture strength increases with increase in volume fraction of SiC particulates, while ductility decreases. As compared to base alloy, 20% volume fraction of SiC reinforced composites showed 16% increase in tensile strength. Dislocation density, precipitation hardening and changes in grain size are the main mechanisms enhancing the mechanical properties of particulate reinforced composites.