Processing of Al/Al₂O₃ Composite Using Simple Shear Extrusion (SSE) Manufactured by Powder Metallurgy (PM)

In this present study, Aluminum with 1, 3, 5 and 7 vol% alumina composites were produced via powder metallurgy and vacuum sintering techniques, then were followed by simple shear extrusion (SSE) process. Four SSE dies with different distortion angles (α) were used in experimental works. The SSE-ed samples with α = 22.5° and 30° were failed whereas the SSE-ed samples with α = 8° and 10° were deformed up to three passes, successfully. Porosity measurements were carried out by Archimedes method and microstructure evaluation of the specimens was accomplished using optical and scanning electron microscopy. Mechanical behavior of processed samples was investigated by shear punch test, and hardness measurements. It was understood that the SSE-ed samples have good bonding at aluminum/alumina interface. It was found that by increasing the number of SSE passes, ultimate shear strength and hardness were increased. The percentage of shear elongation and porosity content were decreased. Moreover, when the amount of α was increased, the shear strength for all samples was improved.