Effect composition of SiC_p and TiB to the mechanical properties of composite Al7Si-Mg-SiC_p by the method of semi solid stir casting

Recently, studies on Aluminum Matrix Composite (AMC) were growing rapidly. AMC reinforced with SiC_p particles in the semi solid stir casting method was the most simple way. In particular, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect composition of SiC_p and TiB to the mechanical properties of the composites Al7Si-Mg-SiC_p and Al7Si-Mg-TiB-SiC_p. The composites used were Al7Si as the matrix and SiC_p as the reinforcement (10, 15, 20 wt%). The casting method used on the study was the semi solid stir casting. The matrix was melted at the temperature of 800 °C. Then, the stirring process started at 590 °C with the speed of 500 rpm for 180 seconds. The composites was heated again until the pouring temperature was at 750 °C. The results of the present study indicated to be successful in which SiC_p particles dispersed uniformly in the matrix composites. Further, the hardness value and porosity of the composites Al7Si-Mg-SiC_p and Al7Si-Mg-TiB-SiC_p increased along with the addition of TiB. Besides, the hardness value increased in the average of 10.5% at the variation of 20% SiC_p. Whereas, the porosity value increased in the average of 54.3% at the variation of 20% SiC_p.