Abstract
In order to assess the possibility of a forging process of aluminum matrix composites, the upsettability and flow stress of a SiC/6061 aluminum alloy composite and the tensile strength of the upset composite were investigated. The composite was prepared with a powder extruding method. The upsetting test and the compressive test were carried out to measure a critical reduction in height and a flow stress. After some upsetting processes and those followed by a heat treatment, the strength and ductility are measured using a small tensile specimen machined from the upset material. At temperature higher than 300°C, the upsettability of the composite is as high as that of conventional alloy. Both at room and elevated temperatures, upset composite is weaker but more ductile than unupset one. The low strength and the high ductility are maintained after subsequent heat treating process.
