Development,Mechanical Properties,and Fracture Toughness of Chilled Pb/Sb/Sn/As Alloy-Al2SiO5 (Kaolinite) Metal Matrix Composites

Abstract

Qualitative tests of some of the lead alloys indicate that a fine grain structure with sufficient strength is necessary for various industrial applications. The presence of tin arsenide phase aids the maintenance of small grain sizes and a smooth spread with no pores. A more quantitative investigation has been undertaken in this study to enhance its mechanical properties and to determine the influence of various factors on the kinetics of grain growth of the lead-rich grains in the molten state. The study shows that developing Pb/Sb/Sn/As alloy-Al₂SiO₅ (kaolinite) composite and chilling during solidification are important in determining the microstructure and mechanical properties of the complex composite. Chilled lead alloy composite is produced for cable sheathing and as a roofing material for chemical industries, where strength and fine grain structure are demanded.

In this study, the size of Al₂SiO₅ particulates added varies between 50 and 100 mm and its content is varied from 3 to 12 by wt% in steps of 3%. Ingots are cast using vortex route method employing different types of end chills (made of copper, steel, cast iron, and silicon carbide, respectively) of 25 mm thick set in the mold to study the effect of volumetric heat capacity (VHC) of the chill on the ultimate tensile strength (UTS), fracture toughness, hardness, and microstructure of the composite. The superior mechanical properties of the composite developed, particularly its UTS, fracture toughness, and hardness are discussed in relation to their microstructure.

Results of the investigation reveal that there is good bonding throughout with consistency in the matrix and as the Al₂SiO₅ content is increased, the strength, fracture toughness, and hardness also increase remarkably.

Keywords

composite chill UTS fracture toughness hardness

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