TWI

Friction stir processing (FSP) was employed to stir electroless copper coated SiC particles with a core shell structure to produce SiC/Cu particle reinforced aluminium matrix composites in the stir zone of AA 6061-T651 aluminium alloy plates with the aims of improving the interfacial adhesion between SiC particles and the matrix and of enhancing the mechanical properties of the composite. FSP was conducted at a rotational speed of 1000 rpm, traverse speed of 1.2 mm/s and tool tilt angle of 2 deg. Microstructure was observed by optical microscopy and TEM, diffusion and intermetallic formation were examined by energy dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction, and grain refinement and texture were studied by electron backscattering diffraction. Mechanical properties were characterised by micro Vickers hardness measurements and tensile tests. Dry wear pin on disc tests were conducted according to ASTM G99-05 at a sliding speed of 1.5 m/s and wear load of 2 kg. Strengthening mechanisms are discussed.

11th International Symposium, 17-19 May 2016, Session 4B: FSP, Paper 02