Microstructure and properties of SiCw/6061 aluminium alloy composites after compression at temperatures around solidus of matrix

Abstract

The effect of compressive deformation at temperatures around the solidus of the matrix on the microstructure and properties of SiC_w/6061 aluminium alloy composites was investigated. It was found that the temperature, strain rate, and amount of deformation affect whisker distribution and breakage, densification and uniformity of composites, and SiC_w/matrix alloy interfacial bonding. The microstructural evolution due to compression affects the properties of the composites, which is considered to be the most important aspect for evaluating high temperature plastic forming of the composites. The optimum parameters for compressive deformation were determined by analysing the microstructure and the properties of the composites.