Microstructural Studies of Aluminium 7075-Silicon Carbide-Alumina Metal Matrix Composite

Abstract

The modern development in the field of science and technology has created a demand for many advanced engineering materials. In recent days, aluminium related metal matrix composite is a probable material for many applications such as transport, aerospace, marine and automobile applications. In this paper, experiments were conducted on composite having various weight fractions of SiC and Al2O3 particulates fabricated by stir casting method. Characterization studies were conducted on the Al 7075 alloy and composite samples to assess the hardness and microstructural properties. Final samples were tested for hardness using vickers hardness machine. Microstructure examination was conducted by optical microscope. Microstructure of the composite samples reveals the presence and homogeneous distribution of reinforcements in the Al 7075 matrix. The hardness of aluminium metal matrix composites was increased due to the addition of silicon carbide and alumina reinforcements.