Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Objectives: To produce a metal matrix composite (MMC) using pure Copper as a base material reinforced with the ceramic additives each time with different volume fractions. Methods/Statistical Analysis: Copper MMCs, with varying particulate volume percentages using advanced microwave sintering techniques and report improvement in compressive strength, Hardness, Relative density properties with an increase in the reinforcement content. Findings: In this present experimental study, six different metal matrix composites specimen has been fabricated using pure copper (Cu) as a base material reinforced with silicon carbide (Sic) and graphite as one of the additives each time i.e., different volume fractions of Sic (5%,10%,15%) and volume fractions of constant graphite (5%). Powder state mixing technique was employed for the different constituent. After mixing, powders were poured in metallic die and then specimens are sintered through Microwave sintering (2.45 GHz, 3.2 kW) with varying temperature (850 oC & 900 o C) and soaking time. Then various tests such as hardness, compressive and microstructure of the composite specimens have been carried out and it is observed that the sintering at 850 oC has produced more effective fused matrix compared to rapid sintering at 950 oC with high mechanical properties especially compressive strength has been improved for 850 oC at 15% of Sic with 5% Graphite. Application/Improvements: Investigating the microwave sintering on physical, mechanical and microstructure changes of hybrid Copper matrix composite.

Keywords: Compressive Test, Copper, Graphite, Hardness Test, Microstructure Test, Microwave Sintering, Silicon Carbide