Effect of silicon content on microstructure of Al-Si/SiCp composite layer cladded on A380 Al alloy by TIG welding process

Tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding was applied to creating a composite layer on the surface of cast aluminum alloy A380. Different mixtures of Al, Si and SiC powders mixed with sodium silicate solution were pasted on substrates. Surface melting was conducted by TIG welding to produce Al-SiC layer on the surface. Microstructural evolution was investigated by X-ray diffractometry (XRD), optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and elemental microanalysis (EDS). Properties of clad layers were studied by microhardness and sliding wear testing. The results showed a uniform distribution of SiC particles in dendritic aluminum matrix. Addition of excess silicon caused the formation of eutectic crystals and coarse silicon particles in the clad layer which resulted in higher hardness and wear resistance of clad layers.