Influence of Nano-Silica in Al6061 Composites on Mechanical and Material Properties prepared through Powder Metallurgy
Abstract The influence of composites preparation methods in the aerospace industry has evolved quite new challenges achieving better and desired properties. In this context, this work deals with the preparation of nano silica-based composite through the powder metallurgy technique. The composites prepared were tested for material characterization with morphological, X-Ray diffraction, and mechanical characterization with hardness, tensile strength, density, and porosity tests. The results revealed that the nano-silica has interfacial interaction with aluminum alloy. The strength of Al6061 nano-silica composite has the effect of sintering and compaction processes. Crystallization of Al6061 composite has been influenced by sintering time for nano-silica reinforcement. A compound was formed during the ball milling process during the blending of Al6061 and nano-silica powders was examined and detailed through material characterization. It revealed the structure as a mesoporous structure which created a route for better-impregnated bearing material. Al6061 nano-silica impregnated bearing with porous structure holds the lubricating fluid which is serving the purpose of self-lubrication and self-cooling by dissipating the heat generated during the running conditions. The strengthening mechanism like the Orowan effect and dislocation density strengthening enhanced the process and revealed the effect on nano-silica content. The wettability of silica was improved through binder in PM and the preheating process of powders. Hardness incremented up to 21% of base alloy through the PM technique.