Effect of Inconel625 particles on the microstructural, mechanical, and thermal properties of Al-Inconel625 composites

This research work investigates the effect of concentration of Inconel625 particles on the microstructural, mechanical, and thermal properties of Al-Inconel625 composites. The Al-Inconel625 composites containing varying concentration Inconel625 particles (0 wt.%, 3 wt.%, 6 wt.%, and 9 wt.%) were prepared by the powder metallurgy method involving microwave sintering and hot extrusion techniques. The microstructural analysis reveals the incorporation and uniform distribution of Inconel625 particles in the Al matrix without noticeable agglomeration except at the final concentration (9 wt.%). Mechanical characterization indicates that the hardness, compressive strength and tensile strength of the prepared composites increases significantly with the increasing amount of Inconel625 particles in the Al matrix up to 6 wt.%. However, a declining trend of ductility is observed with an expanding concentration of Inconel625 content. The fractographic tests demonstrate a shear mode of fractures under compression loading, whereas a ductile fracture mode is prevalent under tensile loading. A liner reduction in the coefficient of thermal expansion of the Al-Inconel625 composites with an increasing amount of Inconel625 particles indicates their enhanced thermal and dimensional stability. The decent microstructural, mechanical, and thermal characteristics of Al-Inconel625 (6 wt.%) composites make them attractive for many industrial applications.