Physical Properties of Graphitic Silicon Carbide Aluminum Metal Matrix Composites

The addition of nickel-coated graphite to silicon carbide particulate reinforced aluminium alloys imparts unique properties to the new composite GrA-Ni™; the graphite makes it useful in high wear applications where it behaves analogously to flake graphite in grey cast iron.

Graphite improves scuffing resistance and significantly increases the critical load at which the transition from mild wear to severe wear occurs. The graphitic silicon carbide MMC has better machinability and can be machined at higher metal removal rates than other existing SiC reinforced composites.

Fatigue life was determined to be similar to A356-15% SiC composite.