Publication

Abstract : Aluminium as matrix in particular have been vastly investigated, this is because of the diverse applications of aluminium due to its excellent properties. Material scientists always face a challenge when it comes to the tribological and mechanical properties of aluminium, as it exudes quite poor behaviour in these aspects. Hence this work aims to improve the mechanical and corrosive resistance of Aluminium by reinforcing with Silicon Carbide and Nickel through powder metallurgy technique. Al-Ni-SiC composite with percentage of Ni fixed at 4% and SiC varied through 2-8% in increments of 2% were fabricated via powder metallurgy technique. The Optimized Load of 210kN and 560°C sintering temperature was used in the technique. The hardness value of the aluminium matrix composites improved with increased percentage of SiC, maximum increase was obtained for 8% SiC composite, showing an increase of about 87%. The wear resistance property of the prepared composites improved significantly with the increased percentage of SiC. There was anoticeable improvement in the corrosion resistance of the aluminium composites compared to its purest form, due to the presence of Ni. However, the increase in SiC percentage decreased the corrosion resistance. The maximum increase was obtained for 2% SiC composite, with an increase of 18.2%