Studies on squeeze casting of Al 2124 alloy and 2124-10% SiCp metal matrix composite

Aluminium 2124 alloy and its composite with 10% SiC particles of average particle size of 23 μm were squeeze cast at different pressures. The effect of squeeze pressure during solidification was evaluated with respect to microstructural characteristics using optical microscopy and image analysis and mechanical properties by tensile testing. The microstructural refinement, elimination of casting defects such as shrinkage and gas porosities and improved distribution of SiC particles in the case of the composite were resulted when pressure is applied during solidification. A pressure level of 100 MPa was found to be sufficient to get the microstructural refinement and very low porosity level in both the alloy and the composite. The improved mechanical properties observed in the squeeze cast alloy and the composite could be attributed to the refinement of microstructure within the material.