Surface modification of aluminium by friction stir processing

In this study, SiC particles were incorporated by using Friction Stir Processing (FSP), into the commercially pure aluminium to form particulate surface layers. Samples were subjected to the various tool rotating and traverse rates with and without SiC powders. Microstructural observations were carried out by employing optical microscopy of the modified surfaces. Mechanical properties like hardness and plate bending were also evaluated. The results showed that increasing rotating and traverse rate caused a more uniform distribution of SiC particles. The hardness of produced composite surfaces was improved by three times as compared to that of base aluminium. Bending strength of the produced metal matrix composite was significantly higher than processed plain specimen and untreated base metal.