Purpose: Determine the possibility of modifying aluminium alloys of the Al-Si system with
an ultrafine SiC modifier with a particle size of 3-5 μm.
Design/methodology/approach: Processing of the Al-Si alloy was carried out by
introducing an ultrafine modifier in the amount of 0.1, 0.2, or 0.3 wt.%. Silicon carbide (SiC)
with a particle size in the range of 3-5 μm was used as a modifier. To study the microstructure
of the formed surface layers, a metallographic analysis was performed according to
the standard method on a microscope MIKPOTEX® MMT-14C using TopView software.
Microhardness studies of the samples were carried out on a Vickers microhardness tester
NOVOTEST TC-MKV1. The microstructure of castings of the AlSi12 grade was studied at
magnification from 100 to 400 times on the horizontal and vertical surfaces of the samples
after etching with a 2% NaOH aqueous solution.
Findings: Aluminium cast alloy of Al-Si system has been synthesized with the addition
of 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 wt.% ultrafine SiC modifier. It was found that the modification of the
AlSi12 alloy by SiC particles of 3-5 μm in size led to an improvement of its microstructure
due to the reduction of the volume fraction of micropores and primary Si crystals. It was
shown that the AlSi12 aluminium alloy due to the modification by 0.2 wt.% SiC has the best
micromechanical properties and macrostructure density.
Research limitations/implications: The obtained research results are relevant for cast
specimens of the indicated sizes and shapes. The studies did not take into account the
influence of the scale factor of the castings.
Practical implications: The developed modification technology was recommended for
use in the conditions of the foundry "Dnipropetrovsk Aggregate Plant" (Dnipro, Ukraine).
Originality/value: The technology of AlSi12 alloy modification of ultrafine SIC modifier
with a particle size of 3-5 μm was used for the first time.
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