Composite Material project report

Mechanical And Tribological Behavior Of Zirconium Oxide And Fly Ash Reinforced LM-25 Aluminium Alloy
Chapter - 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Overview of Composites

The improvement of composite materials and their design and industrial technologies are
known for the most significant developments in history of metals and alloys. The major
advantage of present composite materials is the property of light weight and also strength.
By selecting a suitable combination of matrix and reinforcement, different combination of
materials can be produced or fabricated based on the required application. Composite
helps to afford design flexibility and they can be molded to produce any complicated
shapes. The production of composites is more expensive compared to other conventional
materials. Although the produced product is more resourceful, the cost of raw materials is
high. Composites are the materials which can exhibit various physical and mechanical
properties. The composites can be used for different applications to meet the industrial
requirements. They possess great properties like higher resistance to high-temperature
condition, corrosion, wear and oxidation. This unique characteristic provides design
opportunities which are very much impossible with unreinforced metals or materials.
Many techniques have been introduced in order to fabricate complex and large
components or structures made of composites.
1.2 Composite Materials

Composite material is a combination of two or more metals or materials, once fabricated
results in improved properties compared to individual components that are used alone. In
distinction to metallic alloys, each and every material retains chemical, mechanical and
physical properties. The main constituents of composite are one is reinforcement and the
other is matrix. The advantages of composites are their high strength and increased
stiffness, with combination of reduced density in comparison to bulk materials, which
allows weight reduction in final product or part. The reinforcement phase offers the
required strength and increased stiffness. In some circumstances, the reinforcement is
tougher, stiffer and stronger compared to matrix. The reinforcement will be usually in the
form of fiber or sometimes particulates. Generally the load carrying members in the
composite is fibers and the matrix helps them to keep at the preferred point and
positioning and also acts as a load transmission medium between fiber and matrix. It also
Department of Mechanical Engineering, RIT, Hassan 1

protects the fibers from ecological damages. The prime purposes of the matrix are to
transmit stresses between the fibers or particles which are reinforcements to protect them
from environmental and also mechanical damages. Fibers or particles plays a very
important role to enhance the mechanical properties of the composite like strength, wear,
stiffness and corrosion properties. Different reinforcements are added because different
reinforcements will be having their unique properties. So by adding different
reinforcements the properties of the composite can be improved in all the aspects.
Selection of different combinations of matrix and reinforcements helps the designers or
developers to choose the required combination.
Composites are mainly used in the manufacture of aircraft, space-craft, submarines,

satellites, ships, automobiles, chemical processing equipment, sporting goods components
and also in civil infrastructure. It is also used in medical applications like microelectronic
and prosthesis devices. I emerged as one of the important materials due to their light-
weight, stiffness, high specific strength, fatigue and corrosion resistance properties in
comparison to common metallic alloys such as aluminium and steel etc. Composites also
include some other advantages like their ability to fabricate, low thermal expansion
coefficients and also high dimensional stability. It is the mixture of exceptional physical,
mechanical and thermal properties which makes it more attractive as an alternative to
common metals in various applications.
A composite includes of two types of phases which includes one or more discontinuous
phases inserted in a continuous phase. The intermittent or discontinues phase is generally
stronger and harder compared to continuous phase known as “reinforcement” or
“reinforcing material”. The other is the continuous phase known as the “matrix”. The
matrix selected will be commonly more ductile and limited hardness. It grips the
dispersed phase and shares the load within it. Matrix comprises of three basic materials
i.e. metals, ceramics and polymers. The final structure of the matrix will be in bulk form
or in the form of product or some component. Usually, the secondary phase will be a
discontinuous phase in the matrix and it is harder and stronger compared to continuous
phase. It helps in strengthening of the produced composites and increases the mechanical
properties of the fabricated matrix. The properties of produced composites are intensely
dependent on the specific properties of reinforcement materials. Different constituents are
added based on the volume fraction which is the sum of the constituents that interact with
synergistic way that results in enhanced or superior properties. Reinforcements selected

can be of any shape and size based on the requirement. Depending on the application, the
reinforcements are selected in order to enhance the properties.
The orientation and distribution of reinforcement in the matrix plays a very important role
in achieving the properties of the composite. The discontinuous phase will be in the form
of spherical, rectangular, cylindrical, cross-sanctioned prisms and also platelets. The size
distribution of reinforcements mainly controls the texture of the microstructure in the
produced composite. The volume fraction of reinforcement always decides the region
called interface, which is very important in defining the level of interaction between the
matrix and reinforcement. It is a very important variable which cannot be neglected
because the properties of any produced composite can be controlled by varying the
amount of reinforcements.
1.3 Classification of Composite Materials
Fig. 1.1 Classification of composite materials
1.3.1 Metal matrix composites (MMC)

MMC is advantageous in all the ways in comparison to unreinforced metals in terms of
properties. It possess favorable properties like enhanced specific strength, specific
modulus, better properties obtained at higher temperatures and reduced coefficient of
expansion. Due to these characteristics, the MMC are considered for different varieties of
applications like nozzles in rockets, space shuttle, tubing, housings, heat exchangers,
structural members and cables. Matrices used in the fabrication of MMC will be metallic
matrices and the reinforcements can be either ceramic or fibers particles, so they are
referred as metal matrix composites (MMC). The reinforcement are added in terms of
volume fraction which ranges from 10-80%.
MMC can be used in many applications which are used in our daily life and it is
increasing day by day. Different material like cast iron, graphite and steel can be used
with the addition of some elements like carbide, tungsten carbides with metallic binders
to fabricate and to improve the properties of the composite. Normal conventional material
properties do not match with the standard properties given by MMC which is in great
demand in the present world of applications. Any desired properties can be achieved
using MMC based on the requirement of the customers. The main objectives of
reinforcement used in composites are:
 Increased yield and tensile strength at room temperature with minimum ductility
and toughness
 Increased creep resistance at greater temperatures in comparison to unreinforced
alloys
 Increased fatigue strength particularly at high temperature applications
 Improved thermal resistance
 Improved resistance to corrosion property
 Increased young‟s modulus
 Reduced thermal elongation
1.3.2 Ceramic matrix composites (CMC)

CMC is used in high temperature situations and these materials uses ceramic as the matrix
material and the reinforcements are in the form of whiskers and short fibers.
Reinforcements are prepared from boron nitride (BN) and also silicon carbide (SiC).
Using ceramic fibers like alumina and SiC are beneficial in field of high temperature
applications. It is very important in the areas where environment attack is a main issue.
Due to poor properties of ceramic in terms of shear and tension, the reinforcements are
used in particulate form (calcium phosphate and zinc) in most of the applications.
Ceramic matrix composites are those materials, sometimes in which more distinctive
phases of ceramics are added purposefully to another to improve the properties of the
produced composite in comparison to ceramic materials which are monolithic. In ceramic
matrix composites, the reinforcements added are in the form of discontinuous, particles,
chopped fibers, whiskers or in the form of continuous fibers. Generally the
reinforcements added in CMC are carbon, glass-ceramics, non-oxides, glasses, and

oxides. The function or the purpose of matrix is to align the reinforcements or reinforcing
phases in the preferred direction or position and also a load transmission media. Matrix
also provides protection to reinforcements against environmental issues. The main
function of reinforcement is to provide toughness to matrix which is brittle in nature.
Matrix also consists of filler materials which fills the space between the matrix and
reinforcements that is at the interfaces. Filler materials are used in the matrices to improve
the properties like electrical conductivity, hardness, thermal expansion and thermal
conductivity. These filler particles are in the form of irregular shapes like spherical,
faceted and are commonly used during the fabrication of these kinds of composites.
Fig. 1.2 Various particulates a) Spherical b) Irregular c) Faceted
Ceramic matrix composites are fabricated by conventional powder metallurgy method or

technique and also by customized and specific methods based on the customer
requirement. CMC are fabricated at high temperatures in comparison to metal matrix
composite or polymer matrix composite. This critical temperature condition makes
difficult for fabricating the composite at a faster rate. The advantages and shortcomings
by the usage of ceramic matrix composites are shown below:
1.3.3 Polymer matrix composites (PMC)

A polymer is a material consists of molecules with large molecular mass composed of
repeated fundamental units or also called monomers which are connected by covalent
bonds. The term polymer is derived from Greek word in which „poly‟ means „many‟ and
„meros‟ means „parts‟. Previously we studied that in CMC, reinforcements were mainly
added to increase the material properties like fracture toughness and in case of PMC, the
reinforcement were added in the polymer matrix to increase the strength and stiffness.
The above properties will be lacking in matrix so in order to achieve these properties, the
reinforcements are added. Polymers are considered to be structurally more complex in
comparison to ceramics and other materials. They are easily available and cheaper and
easy to process and can achieve good properties compared other materials having reduced
strength and modulus at lower temperatures. It possess few disadvantages like prolonged
exposure to different radiation like ultraviolet rays and also some kind of chemical
solvents causes the deprivation of material properties. Polymers possess poor conductivity
as it is poor conductor with respect to electricity and heat. Compared to metals, polymers
have good resistance to chemicals.
There are two types of polymer composites:
1. Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) and

2. Particle reinforced polymer (PRP)
1.3.3.1 Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP)
These composites include fibers and matrix of varying combinations. Fibers acts as
reinforcements and they are responsible for the strength of the material. Matrix also plays
a very important role which acts as a bond to hold the fibers to get the desired shape. The
load or stress is transferred or sustained by the fibers and they carry loads along their
longitudinal directions. Fillers are added into the matrix to soften the manufacturing
procedure and to induce some special properties to the produced composite. It also plays
important role in reducing the price of the product. Some of the basic reinforcements used
are carbon or graphite fibers, natural fibers, beryllium, beryllium oxide, asbestos,
molybdenum, aluminium oxide, beryllium carbide, glass fibers, polyamide, etc. Matrix
materials used in FRP are polyetherethrketone (PEEK), epoxy, polyester, polyurethane,
phenolic, vinyl ester. The resins are costlier particularly, PEEK is costlier and widely
used epoxy due to its developed adhesion property and reduced shrinkage.
Particle Reinforced Polymer (PRP): During fabrication of PRF, the reinforcement

particles used are glasses, ceramics like small mineral, metal particles such as amorphous
or aluminium. It also includes polymers and carbon. Particles plays a very important role
in increasing the modules of the matrix but decreases the ductility of the composite. The
cost or the price of the composite can be reduced by adding particles. Common
reinforcements and matrices are used which are inexpensive and easily fabricated. It also
possesses some of the best properties which can be used at high temperature applications.
The good properties given by PRF are low density, corrosion resistance, stiffness, wear
resistance and high strength. They also include some good electrical and thermal
insulating properties. Some ceramics have magnetic property and some are piezoelectric
materials also acts as superconductors at low temperatures. Major drawback of ceramics

and glasses is the property of being more brittle. This polymer is mainly used in the
production of automobile tire using carbon black particles within the matrix of poly-
isobutylene elastomeric polymer.
Polymer composite materials have produced extensive attention in various manufacturing

fields, predominantly in aerospace applications. Investigation is happening universal to
improve newer combinations with mixed blends of fibers and fillers to achieve the god
properties and it can be used at different operational conditions.
1.4 Matrix Material
1.4.1 Matrix
The use of matrix is to combine the reinforcement or bonding together by virtue of its
adhesive and cohesive features in order to transfer load between the reinforcement.
Matrix also plays an important role in protecting the fibers from environments and rough
handling. The strength of the matrix is fully dependent on the strength of the
reinforcements in the form of fibers or particulates which provides effective load transfer
capacity. The matrix supports to hold reinforcements in the form of fibers in the
appropriate direction and position. This makes the distribution of load uniform all over
the matrix and load is carried equally by the fibers. The stress concentrations are
condensed dramatically and inside stress are rearranged from fragmented reinforcement.
Aluminium Alloys: These alloys are mainly used in aviation industries as they possess
better properties liker low density, resistance to corrosion, high strength and toughness.
To enhance the strength of aluminium and its alloys without losing the ductility, need to
add ceramic particles within the matrix to produce the composite with good properties.
Titanium Alloys: Titanium alloys are used in the aviation industry because of their low
density. They maintain strength up to high temperatures and they possess good oxidation
and resistance to corrosion property. It is however a costlier material.
Magnesium Alloys: Magnesium and its alloys are lightweight materials similar to
aluminium alloys. Among other materials, its density is the smallest of about 1.74 g / cm3.
Magnesium castings are conducted to manufacture the aircraft components like
gearboxes, electronic devices and chainsaw housings.

Copper Alloys: Copper possess FCC crystal structure. It is mainly used as an electrical
conductor and has good thermal conductivity property. Molten copper can be easily
poured and processed for casting. A major application using copper as the matrix material
is the production of niobium superconductors.
1.5 Advantages of Composite Materials

Composites have the following advantages
 Increased strength.
 Improved fatigue strength.
 High strength to density ratio.
 Low density.
 High stiffness to density ratio.
 High Toughness (impact and thermal shock)
 High strength at temperature.
 Improved creep strength.
 Improved strength-rupture life.
 Improved oxidation and corrosion resistance.
 Controlled thermal expansion conductivity.
 Improved hardness and corrosion resistance.
1.6 Applications of composites

 In the automotive and aerospace industry.
 In bio-medical field and rehabilitation applications.
 In defense, including rockets, and missiles
 In the manufacture of sports goods, including tennis rackets, fishing poles and
durable consumer products.
 In superconductors and communication applications
 In chemical plants and corrosion resistant products.

Chapter - 2
HISTORY
Metal matrix composites consist of a metallic matrix (Al, Fe, Mg, Cu) and a dispersed
ceramic (oxide, carbides) or metallic phase (Pb, W, Mo). The ceramic reinforcement may
be silicon carbide, boron, alumina, silicon nitride, boron carbide, boron nitride, etc. while
the metallic reinforcement may be tungsten, beryllium, etc. MMCs are used for space
shuttle, electronic substrates, bicycles, commercial aircraft, golf clubs, cars and a range of
different applications. Compared to polymer matrix composites, the advantages of MMCs
are retention of strength and stiffness at elevated temperatures, good abrasion and creep
resistance properties.
Most of the MMCs are still under development or early stages of production and are not
as widely used as polymer matrix composites. The biggest drawbacks of MMCs are their
high manufacturing costs, which have limited their actual applications.
There are many advantages in the physical properties of MMCs like no significant
moisture absorption properties, low electrical and thermal conductivities, non-
flammability and resistance to most radiations. MMCs have existed for 30 years and a
wide range of MMCs has been investigated [1-12].
Compared to unreinforced materials or metals, MMCs possess some important properties.

They are:
 Higher strength
 Higher strength to density ratio
 Better wear resistance
 Higher stiffness to density ratios
 Better elevated temperature properties
 Better fatigue resistance
 Lower creep rate
 Lower coefficients of thermal expansion
The advantages of MMCs are:
 Higher temperature proficiency

 Improved radiation resistance

 Higher stiffness and strength

 Fire resistance
 Higher electrical and thermal conductivities
 No moisture absorption
 No out gassing
 Fabric capability of whiskers and particle-reinforced MMCs
The disadvantages of MMCs compared to unreinforced metals and PMC are:
 Increased fabrication cost

 Relatively immature technology
 Difficult production methods
 Inadequate service capability
Since working on MMC in the late 1950s, numerous combinations of matrices and
reinforcements have been tried. However, MMC technology is still at an early stage of
development and definitely other important methods will arise. Many metals were used as
matrices. The most important were aluminum, copper alloys, magnesium, titanium and
and superalloys.
2.1 Primary Processing of the MMCs

1. Diffusion bonding
2. Powder metallurgy
3. Liquid state processing
 Infiltration
 Squeeze casting
4. Stir casting
2.1.1 Diffusion Bonding
Diffusion bonding is a common technique used for solid-state processing in order to join
dissimilar or similar materials or metals as shown in Fig. 2.1. Interdiffusion of atoms
among clean metallic surfaces, which are in connection at elevated temperature, leads to
binding. The main advantages of this technique are the ability to fabricate a wide
selection of metal matrices and control fiber alignment and volume fraction.
Disadvantages comprises high processing temperatures, extended processing times and

pressures and it makes the method more costly and restricting the complexity of molds
that can be made. There are many variants of the basic diffusion bonding process,
although pressure and high temperature are all applied simultaneously. Vacuum hot
pressing is an significant stage in the diffusion joining method for MMC. Hot isostatic
pressing can be used instead of uniaxial pressing.
Fig. 2.1 Diffusion bonding process
2.1.2 Powder metallurgy
Powder metallurgy or processing methods together with deformation processing are used
to make short fiber or particulate reinforced composites. This generally involves cold
pressing and sintering, or hot pressing to manufacture mainly MMC reinforced with
particles or whiskers. The matrix and the reinforcing powders are mixed to produce a
uniform distribution. The mixing step is followed by cold pressing to fabricate nothing
but called a green body, which is approximately 80% condensed and can be easily
controlled. The cold-pressed green body is packaged in a sealed container and degassed to

remove moisture absorbed from the surfaces of the particles. The material is hot pressed,
isostatically or uniaxially to produce a completely dense and extruded compound. Rigid
particles or fibers makes the matrix to deform considerably.
Fig. 2.2 Powder metallurgy process
2.1.3 Liquid state processing
The melting or infiltration of liquids involves the infiltration of a fibrous preform or

particulate reinforcement by a liquid metal. The infiltration in liquid phase of the MMC is
not simple, mainly due to the difficulties to moisten the ceramic reinforcement with the
molten metal. When the infiltration of a fiber preform happens easily, reactions can take
place between the fiber and the molten metal that considerably destroy the properties of
the fiber. A liquid infiltration procedure called the duralcan process that comprises of
reinforcement of particles has been used successfully for the synthesis of MMC. Ingot-
grade ceramic and aluminum particles mix and melt. The melt is stirred slightly above the
liquid temperature (600-700 ° C). The solidified ingot can also be subjected to secondary
processing by extrusion or rolling. Duralcan's procedure of producing particulate
compounds by a liquid metal casting route contains the use of 8-12 μm particles.

Fig. 2.3 Infiltration process

Squeeze or compression casting comprises of forcing a liquid metal into a particulate or
fibrous preform. The pressure is applied until solidification is complete. By driving the
molten metal through small pores of the fibrous preform and this technique hinders the
necessity of good wettability of the reinforcement by the molten metal. The compounds
made with this method have the advantage of a minimal reaction between the
reinforcement and the molten metal due to the short processing time involved.
Fig. 2.4 Squeeze casting process

The process is carried out in the controlled environment of a pressure vessel and, instead
of fractions of high fiber volume, structures with complex shapes can be obtained. The
intermetallic matrix composite materials reinforced with alumina fiber, for example
matrix materials of TiA1, Ni3A1 and Fe3A1, have also been prepared by pressure
molding.

2.1.4 Stir casting
Stir Casting is a liquid state method of composite materials fabrication, in which a

dispersed phase (ceramic particles, short fibers) is mixed with a molten matrix metal by
means of mechanical stirring. The liquid composite material is then cast by conventional
casting methods and may also be processed by conventional Metal forming technologies.
Stir Casting is a method in the liquid state of manufacturing composite materials, in

which a dispersed phase like ceramic particles and short fibers are mixed with a molten
matrix metal by means of mechanical agitation. The liquid composite material is then
produced by conventional casting techniques and can also be treated by conventional
metal forming technologies.
Fig. 2.5 Stir casting process

Stir Casting is described by the subsequent characteristics:
 The content of the dispersed phase is limited (generally not more than 30% by
volume).
 The scattering of the dispersed phase throughout the matrix is not seamlessly
uniform.
 The method is moderately simple and inexpensive.
2.2 Advantages
 The content of dispersed phase is restricted.
 The technology is relatively simple.
 Large scale production.
 Near net shape can be obtained.

 The technical is economical.
2.3 Disadvantages
 Inherent casting defects-porosities.
 The distribution of dispersed phase throughout the matrix is not seamlessly
uniform.
 Applicable only for low melting point metals.
2.4 Mechanical Properties

These are the properties which show the behavior of a cast product, by a various tests.
The properties depend mainly on what quantity the reinforcement is added and also
depend on the size of the reinforcement used and the route by which it is processed. The
mechanical properties are useful to estimate the behavior of the pieces when they are
subjected to mechanical loads like forces and moments. In particular, we want to know
when the piece will fail as it will break or change the shape or size to get out of the
standard dimension or specification, under dissimilar circumstances. These include
loading like tension, torsion, repeated cyclic loading, compression, constant load for a
long time, bending, impact, etc.
2.4.1 Tensile Strength
The tensile strength is the ability of a material to resist a tensile force (traction). It is
usually measured in units of force per cross-sectional area. This is a significant
conception in engineering, particularly in the areas of materials science, structural
engineering and mechanical engineering. The ability to resist stress breaking is one of the
best significant and extensively measured properties of materials used in structural uses.
The resistance to the traction is important in the use of fragile materials more than in
ductile materials. The tensile test was performed using a universal computerized test
machine at room temperature. The tensile test samples were prepared according to the
ASTM E8 standard. The tensile strength is the ability of a material to resist fracture by
tensile load. For better tensile strength, the bond between the reinforcement and the
matrix should be good. The tensile test, also known as the stress test, is a fundamental test
of materials science in which a sample is subjected to uniaxial stress until failure. The
consequences of the test are normally used to select a material for an application, to
control the quality and to expect how a material will respond under other types of forces
F.J. Humphreys (1990).
2.4.2 Hardness
Hardness is nothing more than resistance to indentation. Hardness is a typical of a

material and not a fundamental physical property. It is defined as the resistance to
indentation and is determined to measure the permanent depth of that indentation. In
short, when using a fixed force or load and a given indenter, the smaller the indentation,
the harder the material is.
The Vickers hardness test method, also known as the microhardness test method, is
mainly used for small pieces, thin sections, or case depth work. The vickers method is
established on an optical measurement system and microhardness test procedure. It is
very beneficial to test on a wide variety of materials, as long as the test samples are
prepared carefully. A pyramid-shaped diamond with a square base is used to test on the
Vickers scale.
In general, the loads are very light, from a few grams to one or several kilograms,
although the "macro" loads of Vickers can reach up to 30 kg or more. T. Lim (1992).
Microhardness methods are used to test metals, ceramics and composites, almost any type
of material. A hardness property value is the result of a defined measurement procedure.
The unit of hardness given by the test is known as Vickers Pyramid Number (HV) or
Diamond Pyramid Hardness (DPH). The hardness number is determined by the load on
the surface area of the indentation oe indent and not the normal area by force, and
therefore is not a pressure.
We will interpret it as "resistance to plastic deformation under load". According to this
definition, it is measured by the permanent deformation on the surface of the material
being tested, when it is subjected to a standard load, then it should be able to put a scratch
on all the materials below the hardness n, and not on any material above the n + 1
harness. It is usually used by a geologist who cannot carry test machines in the field.
The most common tests for engineering materials are the Brinell, Rockwell and Vicker
tests. The Brinell hardness test (HB) is the finest to succeed hardness or macro hardness,
mainly for those materials with heterogeneous structures. For harder materials, the
Rockwell (HRA or HRC) or Vickers (HV) scales are used more frequently, since for such
materials, the ball used in Brinell distorts considerably, giving unreliable measurements.
The aliphatic amines allow the drying of epoxy resins at room temperature and, therefore,
are widely used. However, resins cured with aliphatic amines usually develop the highest
exothermic temperature during the curing reaction and, therefore, the mass of the curable
system is limited.

2.4.3 Wear
Wear is damage to a solid surface usually involving progressive loss of materials, owing
to relative motion between the surface and a contacting substance or substances. It is a
material response to the external stimulus and can be mechanical or chemical in nature.
Wear is unwanted and the effect of wear on the reliability of industrial components is
recognized widely and the cost of wear has also been recognized to be high. Systematic
efforts in wear research were started in 1960s in industrialized countries. The direct costs
of wear failures (i.e. wear part replacements), increased work and time, loss of
productivity as well as indirect losses of energy and the increased environmental burden
are real problems in everyday work and business. In catastrophic failures, there is also the
possibility of human losses. Although wear has been extensively studied scientifically,
still wear problems persist in industrial applications. This actually reveals the complexity
of the wear phenomenon.
The various factors effecting wear can be classified as,
 Physical properties of material.
 Micro structural elements.
 Type of lubrication.
 Loading conditions.
 Surface finish.
 Temperature.
 Environmental factors.
 Sliding distance and speed.
There are quite a few terms to describe various wear modes; however, these modes can be
clubbed into four principal categories
 Abrasion.
 Adhesion.
 Erosion.
 Surface fatigue.
 Friction.
2.5 Strengthening mechanism of composites

The strengthening mechanisms of the composites are different with different kind of
reinforcing agent morphology such as fibres, particulate or dispersed type of reinforcing
elements.

1. Strengthening mechanism of fibre reinforced composites
In such type of composite the reinforcing phase carries the bulk of the load and the matrix
transfers the load to the reinforcing phase by the mechanism of seam. The high strength
of the reinforcing phase restrict the free elongation of the matrix especially in its vicinity,
whereas later is free to elongate at some distance away from the former.
This type of non uniform deformation of the matrix leads to a shear stress at the matrix
reinforcement interface which results tensile stress at the reinforcing phase. Thus the
stress is transferred to the reinforcing phase. The fibers either may be continuous or
discontinuous in the matrix. In the former case the load is directly applied to the
reinforcing phase and stress is constant over its entire length. In case of discontinuous
fibers, the stress in the fibre increased from zero value at the end to a maximum value in
the centre and thus average tensile strength developed is always less than those of
continuous fibers. For the same when the fracture of the reinforcing phase, therefore the
strength of the discontinuous fibre reinforced composite increases with increasing the
length of the fibre and artifacts that of the continuous fibre reinforced one. Also the
strength of the fibre reinforced composite will be maximum when the fibres are aligned in
the direction of the applied stress i.e. in the isostrain condition. So the strength of this
kind of composite depends on the volume fraction of the reinforcing element present in
the composite, which can be determined by the simple rule of mixtures.
2. Dispersion strengthening mechanism of Composites
In the dispersion strengthened composite the second phase reinforcing agents are finely
dispersed in the soft ductile matrix. The strong particles restrict the motion of dislocations
and strengthen the matrix. Here the main reinforcing philosophy is by the strengthening
of the matrix by the dislocation loop formation around the dispersed particles. Thus the
further movement of dislocations around the particles is difficult. Degree of strengthening
depend upon the several factors like volume % of dispersed phase, degree of dispersion,
size and shape of the dispersed phase, inter particle spacing etc. In this kind of composite
the load is mainly carried out by the matrix materials.
3. Strengthening mechanism of particulate composites
In the particulate reinforced composite, the size of the particulate is more than 1 μm, so it
strengthens the composite in two ways. First one is the particulate carry the load along

with the matrix materials and another way is by formation of incoherent interface between
the particles and the matrix. So a larger number of dislocations are generated at the
interface, thus material gets strengthened. The degree of strengthening depends on the
amount of particulate (volume fraction), distribution, size and shape of the particulate etc.

Chapter - 3
LITERATURE REVIEW
Militky J, Kova V, Rubnerov J et.al. [2016]: Aluminum based metal matrix composites
have been successfully fabricated by stir casting technique with uniform distribution of
zirconium dioxide particles. Tensile strength, hardness and impact strength of MMC‟s
was enhanced with increase in weight fraction of ZrO2 particle in Al7075 matrix material.
The percentage elongation of the MMC‟s decreased with increase in Zro2 content, which
confirmed that Zro2 addition increased brittleness.
G. Naga Malleshwara Rao, Na Chen, Zhang et.al. [2015], have reviewed on metal
matrix composites with high thermal conductivity for thermal management applications,
it emphasizes that the latest advances in manufacturing process, thermal properties and
brazing technology of SiC/metal, carbon/metal and diamond/metal composites have been
presented. Key factors controlling the thermo-physical properties were discussed in detail.
The problems involved in the fabrication and the brazing of these composites were
elucidated and the main focus was put on the discussion of the methods to overcome these
difficulties. This review shows that the combination of pressure-less infiltration and
powder injection molding offers the benefits to produce near-net shape composites.
K. Sudershan Kumar, Dr. K. Trirupathi Reddy, G. B. Veeresh Kumar et.al. [2015],

this paper deals with the mechanical properties such as hardness, tensile strength and
wear resistance etc. of Al6061-SiC and Al7075-Al2O3 composites. The composites are
prepared using the liquid metallurgy technique, in which 2-6 wt. % of particulates was
dispersed in the base matrix in steps of 2. The SiC and Al2O3 resulted in improving the
hardness and density of their respective composites. Further, the increased %age of these
reinforcements contributed in increased hardness and density of the composites. The
microphotographs of the composites studied revealed the uniform distribution of the
particles in the matrix system. The dispersed SiC in Al6061 alloy and Al2O3 in Al7075
alloy contributed in enhancing the tensile strength of the composites. The wear factor K
obtained using computerized pin on disc wear tester with counter surface as EN31 steel
disc (HRC60) and the composite pin as specimens, demonstrated the superior wear
resistance property of the composites.
Pushpendra Kumar Sharma, Borse Rajendra R et.al. [2015], in their research thesis
have explained the thermal conductivity of metal matrix composites, which are potential
electronic packaging materials, has been calculated using effective medium theory and
finite element techniques. It has been found that Silicon Carbide particles in Al must have
radii in excess of 10 μm to obtain the full benefit of the ceramic phase on the thermal
conductivity. Comparison of the effective medium theory results to finite element
calculations for axisymmetric unit cell models in three dimensions and to simulation
results on disordered arrays of particles in two dimensions confirms the validity of the
theory.
Narendiranath Babu, Ditto Ramesh et.al. [2015], in their study have presented Silicon
Carbide continuous fiber-reinforced glass and glass-ceramic matrix composites showing
high strength and fracture toughness using thin-foil transmission electron microscopy and
scanning transmission electron microscopy (AEM). The exceptional mechanical behavior
of these materials is directly correlated with the formation of a cryptocrystalline carbon
(graphite) reaction-layer interface between the fibers and the matrix.
P. Sathiamurthi, M. Vardavoulias et.al. [2015], in their paper have studied on Thermal

Expansion and Thermal Conductivity behaviors of Al/Si/Sic hybrid composites. It clearly
highlights that Aluminium-Silicon based hybrid composites reinforced with silicon
carbide and graphite particles has been prepared by liquid phase particle mixing and
squeeze casting. The thermal expansion and thermal conductivity behaviors of hybrid
composites with various graphite contents (5.0, 7.5, 10 wt. %) and different silicon
carbide particle sizes (45 μm and 53 μm) has been investigated. Results indicated that
increasing the graphite content improved the dimensional stability, and there was no
obvious variation between the thermal expansion behavior of the 45 μm and the 53 μm
silicon carbide reinforced composites.
M. Vardavoulias, C. Jouanny-Tresy et.al. [2014], have investigated the effect of

Silicon Carbide and Graphite particulates on the resultant damping behavior of 6061 A1
metal matrix composites to develop a high damping material. The microstructural
analysis has been performed using scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy and
image analysis. It was shown that the damping capacity of Al 6061 could be significantly
improved by the addition of either Silicon Carbide or graphite particulates through spray
deposition processing.
Mahendra Boopathi et.al. [2013]: Al-SiC, Al-fly ash, Al-SiC-fly ash (various
concentrations) composites were successfully fabricated by two-step stir casting process.

Wetting of reinforcements with the aluminium matrix was further improved by the
addition of magnesium. Density of the composites decreased by increasing the content of
the reinforcement. Increase in area fraction of reinforcement in matrix result in improved
tensile strength, yield strength and hardness.
Prasad and Asthana et.al. [2004]: Aluminium MMC was fabricated by reinforced with
SiC and Al2O3, that will reduce the weight and increase the engine efficiency and thereby
reduce fuel consumption and vehicle emissions. Replacing cast iron engine components
with light-weight Al alloys requires overcoming the poor adhesion and seizure resistance
of Al by dispersing SiC, Al2O3 or graphite particles in Al. Considerable reduction in
wear and friction is achieved by use of these particulates.
Manish Narayan et.al. [1995]: Al 2024-15vol.%AI,O, particulate (average size, 18 pm)

composites were fabricated using the liquid metallurgy route. The wear and friction
characteristics of Al alloy 2024 and Al 2024-15vol.%A1203, composite in the as-
extruded and peak-aged conditions were studied using a pin-on-disc machine. The Al
2024-15vol.%Al,O, composite shows better seizure resistance than does the unreinforced
alloy in the peak-aged condition. In the as-extruded condition the wear resistance of the
unreinforced alloy is better than that of the composite.

Chapter - 4
OBJECTIVES AND METHODOLOGY
Objectives
 To fabricate the aluminium LM25 metal matrix reinforced with zirconium oxide
and flyash.
 To study the tensile property of produced metal matrix composite.
 To conduct hardness test of the metal matrix composite.
 To study the wear behavior of the metal matrix composite.
Methodology
Fig. 4.1 Flow chart of the process

Chapter - 5
EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE
5.1 Selection Of Material
5.1.1 Aluminium LM25
LM25 alloy is mainly used where good mechanical properties are required in castings of a
shape or dimensions requiring an alloy of excellent castability to achieve the desired
standard of soundness. The alloy is also used where resistance to corrosion is an
important consideration particularly where high strength is also required. Consequently,
LM25 finds application in the food, chemical, marine, electrical and many other
industries and above all in road transport vehicles where it is used for cylinder blocks and
heads, and other engine and body castings. Its potential uses are increased by its
availability in four conditions of heat treatment in both sand and chill castings. It is, in
practice, the general-purpose high strength casting alloy.
Table 5.1 Composition of LM-25 alloy
Cu Mg Si Fe Mn Ni Zn Sn Ti Al
0.1 0.2-0.6 6.5-7.5 0.5 Max 0.3 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.05 Balance
5.1.2 Reinforcements
MMC reinforced with particles are used for a wide range of industrial applications. The
particulate material is most commonly Al2O3 or SiC but others such as TiB2, SiO2, WC,
B4C, BN, ZrO2, TiC, W etc. they have been investigated. During treating, a chemical
reaction may happen between the matrix and the particles. For example, SiC is sensitive
with aluminum alloys where without the presence of mg, Al2O3 is more steadier in Al
alloys. However, when the matrix is mg, this stability is reversed since mg has a high
affinity towards oxygen. When the fibers are considered, the coating is commonly applied
on the surface, but the particle reinforcement is commonly presented into the matrix in the
pure state. For structural applications, the reinforcing particle size in diameter is in the
range of 10-30 mm and approximately 10-30% by volume of particles is used. Particle
fillers are widely used to develop the properties of matrix materials, such as modifying
electrical and thermal conductivities, enhancing performance at elevated temperatures,

reducing friction, increasing abrasion and wear. Nevertheless, MMC‟s in which these
values are outside these ranges are also used and available commercially, for example
particularly fine particles and high volume contents. For electronic substrate applications,
higher particle volume percentages are used, Such as around 70% by volume.
5.1.2.1 Zirconium oxide
Zirconium oxide (zirconia), is a white crystalline zirconium oxide, the chemical formula
is ZrO2. It is the most natural form, with a monoclinic crystalline structure. The material
has a density of 6.49 g/cm³, melting point of 1852 ℃ and a boiling point of 3580 ℃. It
possesses hexagonal crystal structure and the color is grayish. Zr does not happen in
nature in its pure form. It is found composed with silicon di-oxide with the mineral name
zircon or as a free oxide like ZrO2 with the mineral name Baddeleyite. Some of the
minerals cannot be used as primary materials in dentistry due to the impurities of several
metallic elements that affect the color and due to natural radionuclides such as uranium
and thoria, which create them radioactive in nature. Complex and slow processes that
result in effective split-up of these elements are essential to produce purezirconia
powders. After purification, the material created can be used as a ceramic biomaterial.
ZrO2 is a polymorphic material and comes in three forms, monoclinic, cubic and
tetragonal. The monoclinic phase is stable at ambient temperatures of up to 1170 ℃ and it
is tetragonal at temperatures of 1170-2370 ℃ and cubic in nature at temperatures above
2370 ℃.
Fig. 5.1 Zirconium oxide
However, notable changes in volume are related with these transformations. During the
revolution from monoclinic to tetragonal, a decrease of 5% in volume happens when the
zirconium oxide is heated. On the contrary, an increase of 3% -4% in the volume during
the cooling process is observed.
5.1.2.2 Flyash
Fly ash, flue ash, coal ash, or pulverised fuel ash- coal combustion residuals (CCRs) – is
a coal combustion product that is composed of the particulates (fine particles of burned
fuel) that are driven out of coal-fired boilers together with the flue gases. Ash that falls to
the bottom of the boiler's combustion chamber (commonly called a firebox) is
called bottom ash. In modern coal-fired power plants, fly ash is generally captured
by electrostatic precipitators or other particle filtration equipment before the flue gases
reach the chimneys. Together with bottom ash removed from the bottom of the boiler, it is
known as coal ash. Depending upon the source and composition of the coal being burned,
the components of fly ash vary considerably, but all fly ash includes substantial amounts
of silicon dioxide (SiO2) (both amorphous and crystalline), aluminium oxide (Al2O3)
and calcium oxide (CaO), the main mineral compounds in coal-bearing rock strata.
Fig. 5.2 Flyash
5.2 Preparation of the MMC
 Ingots of LM25 is filled in crucible and placed in stir casting furnace

 Temperature is set for around 750 ˚C and waited till it gets melted fully
 Once the alloy is liquefied the stirrer is placed in the crucible
 Molten is degassed using hexachloroethane tablets
 Coverall is added to the molten metal to reduce the casting defect
 Magnesium chips are added to improve wettability
 Reinforcements are poured continuously in the crucible with continues stirring for
uniform mixing
 Before poring of molten metal into the die, the die is preheated for easy flowing of
molten metal
The experimental stir casting set-up is shown in Fig. 5.3.
Fig. 5.3 Stir casting set-up
(a) (b)
(c) (d)
Fig. 5.4 (a) Melting of LM25 (b) Molten metal (C) Pouring molten metal into die (d) Cast billets

5.3 Specimen Preparation And Testing
5.3.1 Tensile Test
The tensile specimens were machined according to ASTM E8M standards with the aid of
especially sharp cutting tools, to avoid any other additional deformation or over heating
during machining. The cast material of different composition was turned using CNC lathe
for required dimensions using high speed steel tool. The initial diameter and gauge length
was measured using measuring equipment and was recorded for further calculations. The
test was conducted using universal testing machine (UTM) as presented in the fig. 5.6.
Fig. 5.5 Tensile test sample dimensions
Fig. 5.6 Universal testing machine (UTM) Fig. 5.7 After Tensile Test
The testing was performed on a UTM at room temperature. The test was performed on the
sample with gradually increasing the load. The test was carried out till the material gets
fractured and ultimate tensile strength was recorded.

5.3.2 Hardness Test
The hardness test specimen was machined. Rockwell hardness test was performed on this
sample. The test was conducted in different places in order to contradict the possible
indenting effect on the harder particles. The hardness test was performed using the Brinell
hardness test configuration as shown in Fig. 5.8.
Fig. 5.8 Hardness test sample dimensions
Fig. 5.9 Brinell hardness testing Fig. 5.10 After Hardness test
5.3.3 Wear Test
Wear tests was conducted for three different loads (1, 1.5 and 2 kg) and two sliding
distances (2000 and 4000 m). The dimension of wear specimens were 28 mm of length
and 6 mm of diameter. The surfaces of the wear specimen slides over a track radius of
110 mm at a rotating speed of 3 m/s. The emery paper was used earlier to wear test to
polish the disc surface to ensure perfect contact of specimen flat surface with the surface
of steel disc. The wear test setup is as shown in fig. 5.10. The wear track was cleaned

using acetone in order to remove the dust or debris present on the surface and the sample
is weighed prior to and after each sample is tested. Weight loss is calculated by,
Weight loss (WL) = Initial weight – Final weight = W1 – W2 grams
Fig. 5.11 Wear test specimen dimensions
Fig. 5.12 Wear test setup Fig. 5.13 After Wear test

Chapter - 6
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
6.1 Hardness Test

Harness test was conducted on aluminium metal matrix composite fabricated with varying
percentage of zirconium oxide (ZiO2-1.5%, 3% and 4.5%) and flyash (2% constant) using
stir casting technique. Fig. 6.1 and Table 6.1 shows the hardness values obtained for
different composition in comparison to as-cast LM25. It can be observed that, increase in
percentage of reinforcement increased the hardness value. Maximum hardness was
observed for aluminium metal matrix composite having 4.5% ZiO2 and flyash 2% as
reinforcement. An increase of hardness is observed in comparison to as cast condition.
Increase in hardness is because of hard particles of ZiO2 and also due to dispersion
strengthening and because of particle reinforcement. Hardness of the composite depends
on the hardness of reinforcement and also the matrix. The co-efficient of thermal
expansion of ceramic particles (ZiO2) is less compared to as-cast causes a enormous
amount of dislocations are produced at the particle matrix interface during solidification
process and this increases the matrix hardness. Hence the hardness of MMC increases
with increase in percentage of reinforcement.
Fig. 6.1 Hardness of MMC for varying percentage of zirconium oxide (ZiO 2)

Table 6.1 Hardness values for varying percentage of zirconium oxide (ZiO2)
Sl. No. Composition Code BHN
1 A 67
LM25 (as-cast)
2 LM25+zirconium oxide (1.5%) +flyash (2%) B 83
3 C 95
LM25+zirconium oxide (3%) +flyash (2%)
4 LM25+zirconium oxide (4.5%) +flyash (2%) D 108
6.2 Tensile Test

Fig. 6.2 shows the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the specimen increased due to
increase in the reinforcement from 1.5 to 4.5% in comparison to as-cast samples. Increase
in strength is observed for increase in percentage of reinforcement compared to zero (0)
percentage. The reason for increase in strength might be due to the hard and fine
precipitates of zirconium oxide (ZiO2) that will be deposited in the matrix and at the grain
boundaries which will restrict or hinder dislocation motion by lattice strains, rendering
composite stronger. Increased amount of deposit of precipitates for higher percentage of
zirconium oxide (ZiO2) increased the strength of composites. Table 6.2 shows the UTS
obtained for different percentage of reinforcements.
Fig. 6.2 Tensile strength of MMC for varying percentage of ZiO 2

Table 6.2 Tensile strength for varying percentage of zirconium oxide (ZiO2)
Sl. Code UTS

Sample Composition
No. (MPa)
1 LM25 (as-cast) A 120.2
LM25+zirconium oxide (1.5%)

2 B 190.6
+flyash (2%)
LM25+zirconium oxide (3%)

3 C 235.7
+flyash (2%)
LM25+zirconium oxide (4.5%)

4 D 284.3
+flyash (2%)
6.3 Wear Test

Wear test was carried out using pin-on-disc wear test set-up. The test was carried out with
varying parameters of load (30N) and sliding distance (1000 m). Wear test was conducted
for samples of varying percentage of ZiO2 (1.5%, 3% and 4.5%) and constant percentage
of flyash (2%). Table 6.3 shows the wear mass loss for samples with respect to different
composition for sliding distance of 1000 m at sliding speed 3m/s. From the plot it is
observed that, wear mass loss of unreinforced composite is more compared to reinforced
composites with varying percentage of ZiO2.
Fig. 6.3 Wear mass loss for varying percentage of ZiO 2
The hardness properties of ZiO2 and flyash reduced the wear mass loss of the reinforced
composite and the hardness increased as shown in the Fig. 6.3. Increase in wear properties
is due to hard particles of ZiO2 and flyash which protects the aluminium surface from
rubbing further and the wear resistance of the surface is increased. Table 6.3 shows the
wear mass loss obtained for different percentage of reinforcements.
Table 6.3 Wear mass loss for varying percentage of zirconium oxide (ZiO2)
Sl. Material Loss

Composition Code
No. in mg
1 LM25 (as-cast) A 18.5
2 LM25+zirconium oxide (1.5%) +flyash (2%) B 15.2
3 LM25+zirconium oxide (3%) +flyash (2%) C 13.9
4 LM25+zirconium oxide (4.5%) +flyash (2%) D 11.2

Chapter - 7
CONCLUSION
Fabrication of LM25 MMC was carried out with particulates of zirconium oxide (1.5%,
3% and 4.5%) and flyash (2% constant) by stir casting process and the results achieved
are concluded below:
 LM25 metal matrix composite was effectively fabricated with reinforcements

ZiO2 and flyash.
 UTS of produced composite was increased with varying percentage of ZiO2 and
flyash reinforcements.
 Hardness test showed increased property with increase in addition of ZiO2 and
flyash increased the hardness.
 Wear resistance increased with increase in percentage of ZiO2 particle

reinforcement compared to as-cast condition.

SCOPE FOR FUTURE WORK
 Further work can be carried out using severe plastic deformation (SPD) techniques
like equal channel angular pressing (ECAP), multi directional forging (MDF),
accumulative roll bonding (ARB), etc.
 Fabricated composite can be further subjected to corrosion studies to check the

corrosion behavior.
 Microstructural studies can be done with scanning electron microscope (SEM).

REFERENCES
1. Vishal R Mehta, his carried by Effect of temperature on wear and friction

behavior of as-cast and heat-treated LM25/SiC aluminum matrix composites,
2020.
2. A Divya Sadhana, J Udaya Prakash, P Sivaprakasam, S Ananth, they carried by
Experimental Wear behaviour of aluminium matrix composites (LM25/Fly ash)–
A Taguchi approach Proceedings 33, 3093-3096, 2020.
3. S Shankar, S Harichandran, his carried by Aluminium alloy reinforced with fly
ash: Techniques and particle size, JurnalTribologi 23, 13-37, 2019.
4. L Narayanan, his carried by Mechanical properties of fly ash composites, Energy
Sources, Part A: Recovery, Utilization, and Environmental Effects 40 (8), 887-
893, 2018.
5. Militky J, Kova V, and Rubnerov J, “Preparation of Aluminium Matrix Composite

by Using Stir Casting Method”, International Journal of Engineering and
Advanced Technology (IJEAT), Volume 3, Issue-2, pp. 39 - 40, December 2016.
6. Govindan Karthikeyan, his carried by dry Sliding wear behaviour of Stir Cast
LM25/ZrO2 Metal Matrix Composites, 2015.
7. N Radhika Journal of Engineering Science and Technology Vol. 10, No. 2, pp.
149 – 159. Studies On Mechanical Properties And Tribological Behaviour Of
Lm25 Sic/Al2o3 Composites, 2015.
8. G. Naga malleshwara Rao, “sliding wear behaviour of heat treated iron based
powder metallurgy steels with Graphite”, Materials and Design”, International
journal of science and research, Volume 2, Issue 7, pp. 22-28, 2015.
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failure of carbon and basalt reinforced composites”, International Journal of
modern Engineering Research (IJMER), Volume 2, Issue 5, pp. 67-71, 2015.
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particle-reinforced high-speed steel obtained by powder metallurgy”, International
Journal Of advance research in Science and Engineering, Volume 1, Issue 1, pp.
28-35, 2015.

11. Narendiranath Babu, Ditto Ramesh, D. Rama Prabha, T. Lavanya, “Addition of

titanium dioxide, boran nitride and barium sulphate to the fiber matrix ”,
SASTECH Journal, Volume 10, Issue 1, pp. 67-80, 2015.
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particle-reinforced high-speed steel obtained by powder metallurgy, Volume 165,
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Ash and Alumina Reinforced Aluminium Alloy (LM25) Composites, 2013.
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properties of aluminium alloy 2024 reinforced with silicon carbide and fly ash
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Mechanical And Tribological Behavior Of Zirconium Oxide And Fly Ash Reinforced LM-25 Aluminium Alloy

1.1 Overview of Composites

1.2 Composite Materials

Department of Mechanical Engineering, RIT, Hassan 1

Composites are mainly used in the manufacture of aircraft, space-craft, submarines,

Department of Mechanical Engineering, RIT, Hassan 2

1.3 Classification of Composite Materials

Fig. 1.1 Classification of composite materials

1.3.1 Metal matrix composites (MMC)

1.3.2 Ceramic matrix composites (CMC)

reinforcements added in CMC are carbon, glass-ceramics, non-oxides, glasses, and

Fig. 1.2 Various particulates a) Spherical b) Irregular c) Faceted

Ceramic matrix composites are fabricated by conventional powder metallurgy method or

1.3.3 Polymer matrix composites (PMC)

There are two types of polymer composites:

1. Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) and

1.3.3.1 Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP)

Particle Reinforced Polymer (PRP): During fabrication of PRF, the reinforcement

Department of Mechanical Engineering, RIT, Hassan 6

Polymer composite materials have produced extensive attention in various manufacturing

1.4 Matrix Material

Department of Mechanical Engineering, RIT, Hassan 7

1.5 Advantages of Composite Materials

1.6 Applications of composites

Department of Mechanical Engineering, RIT, Hassan 8

Compared to unreinforced materials or metals, MMCs possess some important properties.

The advantages of MMCs are:

 Higher temperature proficiency

Department of Mechanical Engineering, RIT, Hassan 9

 Higher stiffness and strength

The disadvantages of MMCs compared to unreinforced metals and PMC are:

 Increased fabrication cost

2.1 Primary Processing of the MMCs

2.1.1 Diffusion Bonding

Disadvantages comprises high processing temperatures, extended processing times and

Fig. 2.1 Diffusion bonding process

2.1.2 Powder metallurgy

Department of Mechanical Engineering, RIT, Hassan 11

Fig. 2.2 Powder metallurgy process

2.1.3 Liquid state processing

The melting or infiltration of liquids involves the infiltration of a fibrous preform or

Department of Mechanical Engineering, RIT, Hassan 12

Fig. 2.3 Infiltration process

Fig. 2.4 Squeeze casting process

Department of Mechanical Engineering, RIT, Hassan 13

2.1.4 Stir casting

Stir Casting is a liquid state method of composite materials fabrication, in which a

Stir Casting is a method in the liquid state of manufacturing composite materials, in

Fig. 2.5 Stir casting process

Department of Mechanical Engineering, RIT, Hassan 14

 The technical is economical.

2.4 Mechanical Properties

2.4.1 Tensile Strength

Hardness is nothing more than resistance to indentation. Hardness is a typical of a

Department of Mechanical Engineering, RIT, Hassan 16

2.5 Strengthening mechanism of composites

Department of Mechanical Engineering, RIT, Hassan 17

1. Strengthening mechanism of fibre reinforced composites

2. Dispersion strengthening mechanism of Composites