Papers by Keyword: Monotectic Alloy

Abstract: Alloys of exact monotectic composition can decompose at the monotectic temperature into different two phase microstructures. The minority phase can be arranged as fibers similar to eutectics, as string of pearls or as irregularly distributed droplets. The directional solidification of three Al-base monotectic alloys was investigated: Al-Pb, Al-In and Al-Bi utilizing aerogel base furnace technology to ensure constant gradient and solidification velocity over the processing length. The solidified microstructures are characterized as a function of temperature gradient ahead of the solidification front and the solidification velocity. The experimental results are presented in form of stability diagrams for the three microstructures showing the regions in which fibers, string of pearls or irregular morphologies exist. The inter fiber spacing is analyzed and presented in from of Jackson and Hunt type relations and the transitions between the microstructures are discussed.

Abstract: The aim of the present work is to investigate the microstructure of Al-Pb monotectic surface layers generated by a laser surface alloying technique on the surface of an Al-4Cu-1.5Si-0.5Mg alloy. Monotectic alloys are generally used as materials for sliding bearings. Layers of a monotectic alloy generated by laser surface alloying have a potential for superior properties, because the rapid solidification during this process results in fine precipitation structures which can act as solid lubricant. The structure of the Al-Pb monotectic surface layers was observed in the light microscope and the scanning electron microscope. Volume fraction and size distribution of lead particles were determined by quantitative image analysis. Pin-on-disc experiments were carried out to characterize and compare the tribological properties of the Al-Pb monotecitc layers and cast Al-Cu-Si-Mg alloys.