Mechanical Properties of Al6061-Al2O3 Metal Matrix Composite Using Die Casting Technique

Abstract

6061Al - Al₂O₃ Metal matrix composites are applied as conventional materials in the domain of aerospace, automotive and marine applications to enhance the physical properties. The present work aimed to prepare metal matrix composite using 6061Al as the matrix material. Particulates of Al2O3 with 40 µm were reinforced using die casting technique. Further level of reinforcement is being varied from 0-16wt% in steps of 4wt%. Microstructural characterization has been conducted for the resulting composites to check the homogeneous distribution of particles. Tensile properties of 6061Al - Al₂O₃ composite have been analysed. Effect of reinforcement on the tensile properties was studied carefully. Enhancement in tensile properties was observed by the addition of particles in to the matrix and a maximum strength was observed for the composite with 12 % fillers.