Monotonic and Cyclic Deformation Behaviour of the SiC Particle‐Reinforced Aluminium Matrix Composite AMC225xe

Abstract

In recent years, the reinforcement of aluminium alloys with ceramic particles has provided a new family of composite materials; these are applied, for example, in structural components subjected to cyclic loads. [1] The particular attributes of aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) making them attractive for this use are the combination of high fatigue properties, high specific stiffness and relatively low cost, due to the application of conventional metal manufacturing techniques and machining processes. The most significant property improvement compared to conventional metals is the specific modulus. For steels as well as aluminium, magnesium and titanium alloys this ratio is about 26. In AMCs this ratio can be more than doubled by reinforcement with 50 vol.-% ceramic particles. But the reinforcement also leads to a reduction in ductility. For most structural applications the optimal particle reinforcement is between 15 and 25 vol.-%.There are potential applications for AMCs in the aerospace industry, for use in front of the compressor and in the fan bypass structure, where maximum service temperatures do not exceed 150 8C. Another potential area of application is the automotive industry, in which brake callipers and conrods for high performance Formula 1 and Indy racing vehicles are currently manufactured of high quality aerospace-grade aluminium alloy AA 2124 reinforced with 25 vol.-% ultra fine SiC particles, so-called AMC225xe. [2][3]

Damage evolution in AA2124/SiC metal matrix composites under tension with consecutive unloadings

“…The AA2124 aluminium alloy-based metal matrix composites (MMCs) with 17% (AMC217xe) and 25% AMC225xeof SiC particles content were tested [34,35]. As informed by the producer, the average reinforcement particles size was equal to about 3 µm.…”

Influence of the production process on the deformation and fatigue performance of friction drilled internal threads in the aluminum alloy 6060*

“…Tensile and fatigue tests in form of continuous load increase tests in tensile load range were performed and microstructurally evaluated. The fatigue strength of internal threads was estimated in continuous load increase tests [6,7] by the determination of the transition from nearly steady to significantly increasing materials response values (see Figures 6 and 7), and validated in single step tests until 10 7 cycles [8][9][10]. The maximum loads and fracture strains determined in quasistatic and cyclic investigations, respectively, were compared to quantify the production chain-related influences on the mechanical properties of the manufactured specimens.…”

Lower Cost Automotive Piston from 2124/SiC/25p Metal-Matrix Composite

“…Its high strength, fatigue resistance and hardness at elevated temperatures make this composite a successful candidate for automotive engine components such as valve train, pistons, cylinder liners or connecting rods [3], [4]. Properties of this composite such as strain hardening at different temperatures are reported in [5] while the behaviour under monotonic and cyclic loading conditions in [6], [7]. Wear resistance of this material has been reported to be higher than other AA2124 matrix composites [8].…”