Influence of SiC particles distribution on mechanical properties and fracture of DRA alloys

In the last 20 years a new class of metal matrix composite material (DRA – Discontinuously Reinforced Aluminum) with aluminum alloy matrix and SiC particles as secondary phase has been developed. The most important step during composite production is the homogenization process of metal and ceramic powder particles. Quantitative analysis of a SiC particles distribution in the aluminum alloy matrix (CW67) was used to determine the optimum homogenization parameters of different powders. It was found out that the level of mixture homogeneity largely depends on the amount of mixing dish filling, homogenization time and characteristics of reinforcing particles. By introducing the concept of homogeneity index, it was shown that the lowest values of the mentioned parameter correspond to the best uniformity of SiC particles in the CW67 matrix. Composite with the lowest value of homogeneity index was the one with 5 vol.% of SiC, homogenized during 60 min and the amount of mixing dish filling of 20 vol.%. This composite displayed the best values of mechanical properties and fracture resistance.