Experimental Investigation of Fabricated SiC Reinforced Aluminium (4032) Based Metal Matrix Composite

David

Abstract: Aluminium 4032 alloy is widely used in engineering sectors owing to its low density, machinability, and high thermal conductivity. However, its mechanical and tribological limitations restrict its application under high wear and load-bearing conditions. Metal matrix composites (MMCs) reinforced with ceramic particulates have emerged as a promising solution to enhance the mechanical properties of engineering alloys. In the present work, Silicon Carbide (SiC) was used as reinforcement material in Aluminium 4032 alloy, with weight fractions ranging between 6 wt.% and 26 wt.% to evaluate its influence on mechanical, physical, and tribological behaviour. Stir casting was adopted as a cost-effective manufacturing method due to its simplicity, scalability, and suitability for particulate reinforcement. Magnesium was added as a wetting agent to improve matrix-particle interfacial bonding. The fabricated composites were analyzed for density, porosity, hardness, tensile strength, wear resistance, and microstructural characteristics. Results confirmed that mechanical and wear properties improved significantly with reinforcement, showing peak performance at 21 wt.% SiC. Beyond this percentage, clustering and formation of brittle phases reduced ductility and strength. The study concludes that 21 wt.% SiC reinforced Aluminium 4032 MMC provides an optimal balance of performance and cost, making it suitable for automotive and wear-intensive industrial applications.

Keywords: MMC, Stir Casting, Aluminium 4032, Silicon Carbide, Wear, Hardness, Mechanical Properties

How to Cite?: David, "Experimental Investigation of Fabricated SiC Reinforced Aluminium (4032) Based Metal Matrix Composite", Volume 14 Issue 11, November 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1293-1295, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251116191533, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251116191533