Synthesis of Al-Si Alloys and Study of their Mechanical Properties

Abstract

Within the last few years there has been a rapid increase in the utilisation of aluminium-silicon alloys, particularly in the automobile industries, due to their high strength to weight ratio, high wear resistance, low density and low coefficient of thermal expansion. The advancements in the field of application make the study of their wear and tensile behaviour of utmost importance. In this present investigation, Aluminium based alloys containing 7%, 12% and 14% weight of Silicon were synthesized using casting method. Compositional analysis and tensile studies of different samples of same composition have shown near uniform distribution of Si in the prepared alloys. Study of microstructure has showed the presence of primary silicon. Tensile tests were carried out with universal testing machine. Yield strength and ultimate tensile strength has increased with increase in silicon percentage. Wear behaviour was studied by using computerized pin on disc wear testing machine. Resistance to wear has increased with increase in silicon amount. The worn surfaces were analysed using scanning electron microscope.