Microstructure and Tensile Properties of $SiC_p$-reinforced Aluminum Alloy Composites Fabricated by Die Casting Method

다이캐스팅법에 의해 제조된 SiC 입자강화 알루미늄합금기 복합재료의 미세조직 및 인장특성

The main objective of this study is to investigate the microstructure and tensile strength of $SiC_p$/Al alloy composites fabricated by die casting method. Die casting was performed using the preheated mold at the pouring temperature range of $620{\sim}750^{\circ}C$ under the pressure of $1,039 kgf/cm^2$. The low speed and a following high injection speed were 0.4 and 2.1 m/s, respectively. The microstructure of $SiC_p$/Al alloy composites fabricated by die casting method was found to be finer than that of composites fabricated by gravity casting. Also, SiC particulates were homogeneously distributed in refined Al matrix due to rapid solidification. The tensile strength of $SiC_p$/Al alloy composites fabricated by die casting method was found to be varied with cast temperature. The maximun tensile strength of $SiC_p$(10 vol.% and 20 vol.%)/Al alloy composites showed 380 MPa at the cast temperature of $750^{\circ}C$ and 363 MPa at the cast temperature of $700^{\circ}C$, respectively.