Solidification of Hybrid Aluminium Alloy Matrix Composites

Hybrid metal Matrix Composites (HMMC) are second generation composites containing more than one type, shape and size of reinforcements in the matrix alloy. These composites offer combined properties of the reinforcements, some times improved and special properties with synergistic effects. The properties of these composites depend strongly on the distribution profile of the reinforcements. However, the nature of the distribution of the reinforcements depends on the size, shape and the morphology of the reinforcements and their sequence of addition. The other factors affecting the solidification conditions and microstructure of the composites are thermal characteristics of the reinforcements and the interfacial reaction taking place between the reinforcements and the matrix. In the present investigation, the hybrid composites are synthesized by stir casting technique and solidification behavior of hybrid Al-SiCp-grapbite particle reinforced composites is studied using thermal analysis and Differential thermal analysis (DTA) and compared with corresponding microstructures.