Study on Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Aluminum Alloy 63401 Metal Matrix Composite Reinforced with Silicon Carbide Powder

Objectives: The present research examine the mechanical properties and microstructure of aluminum alloy 63401 metal matrix composite reinforced with silicon carbide powder of different wt% i.e. 3%, 6% and 9% and different grain size. Different weight percent of SiC i.e. 3%, 6% and 9% with different grain size of 177 μm, 149 μm and 74 μm. Methods: The mechanical properties i.e. hardness, tensile strength and impact strength were studied by preparing the required samples by stir casting method. Findings: From the obtained results we found that more the weight percentage of SiC powder, impact strength, tensile strength and hardness increases but the percentage elongation decreases with increase in weight percentage of SiC and increases with decrease in grain size of SiC. Also microstructure shows the nearly distribution of reinforcement material. Applications: They can be used in making body parts of vehicles having great impact strength. Making different parts of aeroplanes and also used in producing bus bars of higher strength.