Experimental and numerical Investigation for the selection of Zirconia based reinforcements of Aluminium metal matrix composites

Abstract

The requirement for materials to possess high strength-to-weight ratio, enhanced toughness, hardness and better mechanical properties has led researchers to investigate further to obtain materials better than alloys. Thus, by reinforcing ceramics, fibres and alloys, metal matrix composites were prepared according to the requirements of the industries and manufacturing sectors. Aluminium has been used widely for various purposes. Reinforcing aluminium with composites has become popular due to its abundance in nature and remarkable properties. In this research, an attempt has been made to enhance the mechanical and metallurgical properties of Al6061, by reinforcing it with three types of reinforcements: zirconia (ZrO2), zirconia and alumina (ZrO2+Al2O3) and Fused Zirconia Alumina (FZA). Aluminium Metal Matrix Composites (AMMCs) were prepared by varying the combinations as follows: 95% Al6061 5% reinforcements; 90% Al6061 10% reinforcements; and 85 % Al6061 15 %reinforcements. Stir-casting method was adopted to fabricate the composites. This process involves melting aluminium in an electric furnace at 900 and#730;C and adding the reinforcement for 5 to 10 minutes at 800and#730;C.Ten different cast specimens were prepared in various proportions for testing, and their properties were compared with those of the cast Al6061. newline