Recent findings on mechanical behaviour of stir cast aluminium alloy-matrix composites: An overview

Abstract

This study examined the previous research on the mechanical properties of reinforced composites of aluminium-matrix, manufactured by stir casting. Stir casting has been reported as the most economical fabrication method currently in use for producing Aluminum Matrix Composites because of its accessibility, portability, adaptability to be utilized for large-scale manufacture, and easy operation of the application to conventional shape casting foundry procedures. Apart from the minority report that recorded a reduction in ductility, yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and modulus of elasticity but with an increase in hardness of the SiC particulate reinforced aluminium matrix composites following the increase in reinforcing material, the majority of work has shown that the mechanical properties increase with the increase in the addition of the reinforcing material. Reinforcing materials like silicon carbide, tungsten carbide, alumina, boron carbide, and multi-walled carbon nanotubes have been used in various compositions to manufacture aluminium-matrix composites. The highest reported ultimate tensile strength of 489 MPa was obtained after stir casting 10 vol% of SiC - aluminium matrix composite. The maximum tensile strength of 401 MPa was attained with 20% B4C - Al-matrix composite. Various uses of metal-matrix composites have been identified in the making of hypersonic aircraft, sporting equipment, and automobile engine parts.