Microstructural evaluation of ZrC reinforced Al-Cu matrix alloy composites fabricated by mechanical alloying and vacuum hot pressing

Hülya Kaftelen*, Necip Ünlü, Lütfi M. Öveçoǧlu, Hani Henein

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

In this work, Al-4wt.%Cu composites comprising two differently sized ZrC reinforcing particles (157 μm and 8 μm) were fabricated by high energy ball milling and vacuum hot pressing. Vacuum hot pressing experiments were carried out at 550°C under a pressure of 70 MPa on Al-4wt. %Cu composite powders ball milled for 3h. Effects of reinforcement size on the microstructural and physical properties of the composites were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS) techniques. Following vacuum hot pressing, approximately relative density values of 98 % were achieved for all hot pressed Al-4wt.%Cu composites. Highest microhardness values were measured for the hot pressed Al-4wt.%Cu composites containing the smallest sized ZrC reinforcing particles (8 μm). On the basis of analysis, in addition to the Al, ZrC and Al 2Cu phase reflections, a tetragonal Al7Cu2Fe phase was formed due to iron contamination from balls and/or vial in the metal matrix composite during MA process.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationTMS 2010 - 139th Annual Meeting and Exhibition - Supplemental Proceedings
Pages189-196
Number of pages8
Publication statusPublished - 2010
EventTMS 2010 - 139th Annual Meeting and Exhibition - Seattle, WA, United States
Duration: 14 Feb 201018 Feb 2010

Publication series

NameTMS Annual Meeting
Volume2

Conference

ConferenceTMS 2010 - 139th Annual Meeting and Exhibition
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySeattle, WA
Period14/02/1018/02/10

Keywords

  • Al-matrix composites
  • Mechanical alloying
  • Microstructure
  • Vacuum hot pressing

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