Rolling of cast Al-SiCp particulate metal matrix composites and strip mechanical properties

Thermomechanical physical simulation is applied to get the optimum hot rolling parameters of aluminium silicon carbide composites. Wrought Al 6061 and 6082 - Silicon carbide particulate (SiCp) metal matrix composite strips are prepared by stir-casting followed by sequential rolling assisted with intermediate heat treatment to allow crystallization recovery and further processing. SiCp are used in two microgrit grades; namely F500 and F800. The reinforcing particulates are used after surface oxidation and 0.3% Mg is added during melting and stirring for loss substitution. With the pre-treatments applied, SiCp are successfully inserted in the Al matrix, better wetting between particles and matrix, better particles distribution, less agglomeration and minimized reactions between SiC particles. Thermo-mechanical simulation as a tool for physical simulation indicates that rolling at 450 degrees C using a rate of 1 s(-1) rate represent suitable rolling conditions. Successive hot rolling resulted in decreasing void percent and SiCp agglomeration. Hence, enhanced mechanical properties are achieved.