Mechanical Characterization of Hybrid Metal Matrix Composites Reinforced with Silicon Carbide and Fly Ash

Abstract The objective of this study is to analyze how the mechanical properties of AA5128 affected by the addition of reinforcement materials, specifically Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Fly ash (FA). Composite samples were made using the stir casting method with two particle sizes and four different reinforcing weight-to-weight ratios. To gauge the combined effect on the composite’s mechanical properties, SiC, a robust ceramic, and fly ash were selected as reinforcing materials. The following reinforcements were used to make Hybrid Metal Matrix Composites (HMMCs): System 1 (SiC-50 μm and Fly ash-100 μm) and System 2 (SiC-10 μm and Fly ash-50 μm). The weight percentages for each reinforcement were 4 %, 3 %, 2 %, and 1 %, respectively. System 1 and System 2 underwent mechanical characterization analyses on composite samples, which included compressive strength, wear rate, and hardness. For microstructure investigation, XRD and SEM was used. Both System 1 and System 2 with uniform reinforcement particle dispersion were revealed by mechanical characterization. Regardless of the load, System 1 showed less wear resistance and a higher density than System 2.