Comparative Study of Synthesis of Al6061-B4C Metal Matrix Composites - A Review

Abstract

Amongst the existing synthesis methods of composite materials, stir casting is a striking synthesis method for producing Al6061-B₄C (boron carbide) Metal matrix composites (MMCs). It is inexpensive and bids an extensive choice of materials and synthesis circumstances. The stir casting technique includes the introduction of preheated ceramic particulates into the vortex of melt created by the rotating stirrer. In this method, to attain the optimal properties of the metal matrix composite, the dispersal of the reinforcement material in the matrix should be unchanging and the wettability between the melt matrix and reinforcement particulates should be enhanced. An appropriate amalgamation can be produced by this technique by appropriate choice of the method parameters such as pouring temperature, stirring speed, preheating temperature of reinforcement, use of carrier gas etc. Grave to the accomplishment of stir casting is the control over normally disagreeable features such as porosity ensuing from gas entrapment during mixing, oxide inclusions. Present study involves a comparison between top, bottom pouring methods, and optical microstructure obtained after casting by both the methods.