Processing and compressive strength of Al–Li–SiCp composites fabricated by a compound billet technique

Al–Li–SiCp composites were fabricated by a simple and cost effective stir casting technique. A compound billet technique has been developed to overcome the problems encountered during hot extrusion of these composites. After successful fabrication hardness measurement and room temperature compressive test were carried out on 8090 Al and its composites reinforced with 8, 12 and 18 vol.% SiC particles in as extruded and peak aged conditions. The addition of SiC increases the hardness. 0.2% proof stress and compressive strength of Al–Li–8%SiC and Al–Li–12%SiC composites are higher than the unreinforced alloy. In case of the Al–Li–18%SiC composite, the 0.2% proof stress and compressive strength were higher than the unreinforced alloy but lower than those of Al–Li–8%SiC and Al–Li–12%SiC composites. This is attributed to clustering of particles and poor interfacial bonding.