Residual stresses in fibre- and whisker-reinforced aluminium alloys during thermal cycling measured by X-ray diffraction

Residual stresses have been determined using X-ray diffraction in two different metal matrix composites, viz. a squeeze-cast Al-2%Mg matrix with 10, 20 or 26 vol.% Al2O3 fibres and an extruded AA 6061 alloy with 25 vol.% SiC whiskers. The composites have been studied after thermal cycling between 240 or 250 °C and room temperature succeeded in some cases by quenching to liquid nitrogen temperature. On the squeeze-cast composite, stresses were measured at room temperature and in situ at 240 °C. X-ray stress determinations were compared with the stress values calculated by a modified Eshelby model for equivalent inclusions. By the model, the stresses can be accurately predicted for both composite systems. Thermally induced plastic relaxation reduces the residual stresses. The degree of reduction depends on the reinforcement volume fraction, the difference in coefficient of thermal expansion between the phases and the magnitude of the temperature drop. At elevated temperature the stresses are less responsive to reiterated quenching and heating.