Abstract
Aluminum-based metal matrix composites (Al MMCs) are attractive materials that can be used in various industrial fields. Their unique characteristic is the combination of lightweight, excellent ductility of the aluminum matrix and high strength, high stiffness and high temperature capability of the reinforcements. Processing conditions are proven being closely related to the properties of the composites. In this study, Al MMCs reinforced with stainless steel fiber (SSF) were fabricated under different processing conditions. Properties, such as density and tensile strength, as well as microstructures of the composites were investigated. The effect of fabrication parameters on the microstructures and properties of the composites, and the effect of secondary treatment of rotary swaging were discussed. The experimental results reveal that interfacial reaction tends to occur at temperatures higher than about 450℃, and forms an apparent reaction products layer between the matrix and SSF. The interfacial reaction layer, which is regarded as a mixture of various intermetallic compounds, exhibits high hardness and brittle feature resulting in the composites with low ductility.
