Rotating cylinder manufacturing method and investment casting of SiC_p/AZ91HP magnesium composites

Abstract

This paper describes the rotating cylinder method for manufacturing, and investment casting for forming, composite slurry. Microstructural features, such as SiC particle distribution and grain refinement of the as cast composites, were investigated. Also the effect of SiC particle fraction and size, and process parameters on the microstructure and the mechanical properties are discussed. Attempts were made to evaluate the thermal stability of oxides against molten AZ91HP magnesium alloy. The oxides examined included CaO, CaZrO₃, and silica bonded Al₂O₃ and zircon flour. Finally, the tensile properties, hardness, and wear resistance of the as cast composites were evaluated and the results are compared with those of the as cast alloy.