DEVELOPMENT OF ELECTROMAGNETIC STIR CASTING PROCESS FOR METAL MATRIX COMPOSITE (MMC)

Abstract

Combining high specific strength with good corrosion resistance, metal matrix composites (MMCs) are materials that are attractive for a large range of engineering applications. Given the factors of reinforcement type, form, and quantity, which can be varied, in addition to matrix characteristics, the composites have a huge potential for being tailored for particular applications. One factor that, to date, has restricted the widespread use of MMCs has been their relatively high cost. Conventional Methods like Stir Casting followed by Squeezing of the material in mushy state is one of the most widely used method for the production of Metal Matrix Composites. However, the process is linked with some of its limitations which are directly reflected in the characteristics of the produced MMC. In spite of these limitations and defects present in the method and the product, this process is one of the most used and commercially practiced methods for their production. The arguments which goes in favor of this process comprises of simple, conventional and cheap method in terms of cost as well as time. This work is focused on the application of this method as usual and then with some changes in the process design with the target to achieve, some better results and characteristics in the composite material. Hence forth, Aluminium Matrix Composites are cast with A16063 alloy as the matrix material with SiC particles reinforced into it and their characterization is done. Electromagnetic mode of Stirring is used in place of regular mechanical stirring [done usually with help of a metallic stirrer] to aid the reinforcement particles enter the matrix phase and casting is done with varying percentages of SiC particles [by weight]. Furthermore, characterization is done and results obtained are compared with those obtained from Stir casting method.