An Investigation of Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Sn-9Zn-xCr Alloys Produced by Investment Casting Method

Abstract

In this study, the microstructure and mechanical properties were investigated of different amount Cr (0.1%, 0.5%, 0.9%) added Sn-9Zn eutectic alloys and Weibull statistical analyses were evaluated using ultimate tensile strength. Pure elements (Sn, Zn, Cr) were used for production of alloys and pre-alloying was done and waited in the electrical resistance furnace at 450 • C for 1 h to homogenized and poured as ingot in plaster moulds. Then pre-alloyed Sn-9Zn-xCr ingots were melted and poured at 300 • C in ceramic moulds prepared investment casting method. As a result of the study, the highest hardness and ultimate tensile strength values were measured in the Sn-9Zn alloy with 0.1% Cr. It was determined that while ultimate tensile strength was decreased, percentage of elongation was increased by increase of Cr amount. According to the Weibull statistical analyses results, the highest Weibull module was calculated by Sn-9Zn-0.1Cr alloy ultimate tensile strength values.