Parametric optimization and mathematical modeling of tantalum oxide modified Al-Si alloy hardness

This article investigates the effect of tantalum oxide (Ta 2 O 5 ) modification on the hardness properties of aluminum-silicon (Al-Si) alloys through mathematical modeling and parametric evaluation. During the experimental studies, the influence of varying amounts of tantalum oxide particles on the mechanical properties-particularly hardness-was examined, and the relationship between them was clarified based on experimental results. The findings indicate that the addition of tantalum oxide has a significant impact on the hardness of the alloy. The modifier was introduced into the samples in specially wrapped form, and the samples were cast into sand–clay molds. Within a certain optimal concentration range, the hardness reaches its maximum value, which can be explained by microstructural refinement and improved phase distribution. However, when the amount of additive exceeds this optimal level, a slight decrease in hardness is observed due to particle agglomeration and segregation in the samples. Based on the research results, a mathematical model describing the relationship between tantalum oxide content and hardness was developed. This model shows good agreement with experimental data and can be effectively used as a tool for selecting the optimal composition of Al–Si alloys and predicting their mechanical properties.