Effect of Raw Materials on Hardness and Metallography Test of Aluminum Matrix

The use of aluminum is increasing because it is lightweightLightweight, wear-resistant, ductile and friction resistant. However, the waste generated is also increasing, for example, piston waste and other aluminum product waste. This aluminum waste can be recycled through a remelting process, but the quality of the product changes in its physical and mechanical properties. Aluminum waste consists of piston waste and aluminum waste as the main composite material (AMC). The reinforcementReinforcement uses 10% slag from cast iron casting waste containing SiO3. The purpose of this study was to analyze the physical and mechanical properties of AMC waste piston products (Piston/SiO3) and AMC waste aluminum (Waste Al/SiO3) with 10% slag. The research was conducted by remelting AMC products using a crucible furnace. HardnessHardness and metallographic test samples were prepared and then tested. The results show changes in test results in the remelting process of AMC products. Analysis of chemical composition tests with a spectrometer showed an increase in the value of the elements Ni, Cu and Mg which could increase the strength and hardnessHardness of the AMC material. It was observed that the results of the hardnessHardness test with microvickers showed an increase in the hardnessHardness value. Metallographic testing results in finer grains and increases the value of the product's mechanical properties. These findings indicate that the AMC material has better properties than the AMC raw material.