Fabrication and characterisation of Al-7Si-0.35Mg/fly ash metal matrix composites processed by different stir casting routes

In the present investigation, the effect of three different stir casting routes on the structure and properties of fine fly ash particles (13 mu m average particle size) reinforced Al-7Si-0.35Mg alloy composite is evaluated. Among liquid metal stir casting, compocasting (semi solid processing), modified compocasting and modified compocasting followed by squeeze casting routes evaluated, the latter has resulted in a well-dispersed and relatively agglomerate and porosity free fly ash particle dispersed composites. Interfacial reactions between the fly ash particle and the matrix leading to the formation of MgAl2O4 spinel and iron intermetallics are more in liquid metal stir cast composites than in compocast composites. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.