The effect of SiC additive on material properties in hot pressed metal matrix composites

Metal matrix composites (MMK) are especially used for cutting tools, friction elements and many other industries. Carbide, boron and oxide compounds added to a metal matrix improve product performance to a great extent. In this study, it is aimed to investigate the effect of SiC added to a metal based matrix composition on microstructure and mechanical properties. As a matrix material, SiC particles were added to a matrix consisting of 85% Bronze, 10% Ni and 5% Co, and the metal matrix composite (MMK) material was produced by direct resistance fast hot press sintering technique. Hot press sintering was performed at 650-700-750 oC for 4 minutes under a pressure of 35 MPa at 120C / min. Different SiC (2-4-6 w.t.%) ratios and grain sizes (30-60-120 mesh) were added to the matrix to investigate the actual mass, hardness (HB30), flexural strength (MPa) of the samples. The microstructure and phase properties and fracture surfaces of the produced matrix were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractogram (XRD). As a result of the experiments, the hardness and density values of the produced materials increased with increasing sintering temperature. Porosity and hardness value increased with increasing SiC ratio. The increase in SiC concentration showed changes in 3-point flexural strength depending on the particle size.