Powder metallurgical processing of a SiC particle reinforced Al-6wt.%Fe alloy

Abstract
Discontinuously reinforced aluminum alloys for elevated temperatures with a matrix hardened by intermetallic phases generally have to be produced by powder metallurgy because of their high content of alloying elements. The objective of this investigation was the evaluation of powder metallurgical processing for an A16Fe powder alloy containing various fractions and volume contents of SiC particles. During processing, the effect of powder mixing on SiC particle distribution in the extruded product was emphasized and examined by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Gas development during mixing and degassing was investigated by mass spectroscopy and related to strength, fracture toughness and ductility. In addition to room temperature mechanical properties, elevated temperature tensile properties were evaluated for the various SiC particle distributions.