ON THE DAMPING CAPACITY OF COMPOSITE MATERIALS

The study adresses the problem of the damping capacity of metal matrix composites based on A359 alloy reinforced with 10%, 20% and 30% SiC_p, subjected to multiple remelting. The aim of the research was to prove that the recycling process simulated by multiple remelting does not significantly change the damping characteristics of the investigated materials. Based on the results obtained it was possible to ascertain that the specific character of the SiC_p / metal matrix interface is the main feature affecting the damping capacity of these materials. At the same time, it should be stressed that the properties of the SiC_p / metal matrix interface depend greatly on the manufacturing method. Strong bond produced between the reinforcing phase and composite matrix guarantees optimum mechanical characteristics at the expense of reduced damping capacity. The results confirm the potential possibilities of introducing to industrial practice the solution offered by the recycling process, which is a simple and economically effective method carried out by multiple remelting. However, efforts should focus on minimization of gas-shrinkage porosity during the successive casting operations to avoid the deterioration of mechanical characteristics.

Download 2.7 MB >>