Characterization of ZrC reinforced AA6061 alloy composites produced using stir casting process

In the present study, effect of ZrC vol.% on mechanical properties of AA6061 metal matrix composites (MMCs) produced via stir casting technique was investigated. The vol.% of ZrC particles was varied as 5,10 and 15. The composites were characterized for its microstructure and mechanical properties and their relationships were obtained. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images revealed uniform distribution and good bonding between the AA6061 alloy and the ZrC particles. The mechanical properties of the AA6061 alloy was found to significantly improve with the addition of ZrC particles from 5 to 15 vol.%, the hardness increased from 32 to 68 HV, yield strength increased from 50 to 86 MPa and the ultimate tensile strength increased from 118 to 165 MPa. However, the % of elongation of the composite samples decreased with 15 vol.% addition of ZrC particles. Sliding wear behaviour of the composites was investigated using a pin-on-disc wear tester at a load of 9.8 N and addition of ZrC particles was significantly found to reduce the wear rate of AA6061 alloy.