Publication

Abstract : Every vehicle manufactured has a chassis design that corresponds to its body shape, size and material used, to its performance. Aluminium alloys are most commonly used due to its high strength to weight ratio. Recent studies reveal that addition of reinforcements enhance the mechanical and tribological properties of aluminium and its alloys. So in this study, keeping aluminium (A 356) alloy as the matrix, WC particulates were added at 4 wt.% to the matrix using stir casting technique. The composition and microstructure of the cast specimens were studied by using EDS and SEM. The Vickers hardness test was carried out on both as-cast and heat treated specimens. The inference was that the composite had no effect on the heat treatment. A sample design of a roll cage chassis of an off-road vehicle was designed in Solidworks. Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) analysis was carried out on both composite and A 356 alloy chassis. The analysis showed that the composite was a better choice of material selection than the conventional aluminium alloy for its improved impact resistance and high strength to weight ratio and design safety.