Investigation of Mechanical Properties of Al6061–SiC–B₄C Composites Produced by Using Stir Casting Method

With the advent of modernization, there is a need for advanced engineering materials for various engineering applications. The current study employs Al6061 as the matrix material. The reinforcing particles employed are SiC and B₄C. Al6061–SiC–B₄C hybrid composites are fabricated through the utilization of stir casting technology. The SiC carbide particles are maintained at a constant concentration of 3%. The B₄C particles are incrementally altered in 2% increments, ranging from 2 to 8%. Scanning electron microscopy is employed to analyze the microstructure of the manufactured composites. Brinell hardness testing equipment is utiliszed to conduct the hardness test on the manufactured composites. The tensile strength and compression strength of the manufactured composites are assessed using a universal testing machine. The wear test is performed via a Pin-on-disc wear testing apparatus. The microstructure research reveals that SiC and B₄C particles are evenly dispersed throughout the Al6061 matrix. The hardness value, tensile strength and compression strength findings demonstrate that the produced composites have higher tensile strength than the Al6061 matrix alone. The tensile fracture surfaces of the Al6061 + 3%SiC + 6%B₄C composite are found to be brittle in nature. The maximum hardness and maximum tensile strength is obtained for Al6061–3%SiC–6%B₄C hybrid composite and is equal to 75.97 BHN and 141.4 MPa respectively. The maximum compression strength and minimum wear rate is obtained for Al6061–3%SiC–6%B₄C composite. The worn-out surface of composite shows the presence of sliding grooves. The developed composites are used in automotive applications in components such as cylinders, brake drums and pistons etc.