Evaluation of Al-Cu Alloy Hybrid Composites Reinforced with Graphite and Fly Ash

Aim: In this particular investigation, the Al-Cu alloy serves as the matrix material, and fly ash and graphite are the reinforcements. Composites made of aluminium and copper alloy are particularly popular for a variety of reasons, including their high thermal conductivity and their operability in temperatures that are closer to room temperature. Reinforcing materials used are graphite and fly ash particles in view of their ability to be made into thin layers while yet maintaining their strength. The composite material was produced by a method known as stir casting. Methods: The molten Al-Cu alloy was reinforced with graphite and fly ash particles in proportions of 3 percent, 6 percent, and 9 percent. Following that, an examination of the composite’s mechanical properties was carried out. Hardness, tensile strength, and wear were some of these characteristics. The microstructure of the Al-Cu matrix was analysed using SEM to determine how well graphite and fly ash particles were distributed throughout the matrix. Results: According to the findings, there is a correlation between the weight of graphite and fly ash and an increase in the material’s stiffness and hardness. When more reinforcement materials are added to composites, the density of the finished product decreases. Additionally, the presence of the reinforcing particle improves the wear property of the surface. The ASTM requirements were followed in the fabrication of the specimen that was used in the experiment. Major Findings: It is also found that the increase in reinforcement also enhanced the property of hardness in the composites. It is shown that the amount of fly ash and graphite boosts the dry sliding wear resistance, and the microstructure and XRD reveal the presence and fairly uniform distribution of fly ash and graphite particles in the Al-Cu composite.