Semester

Fall

Date of Graduation

2003

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

College

Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources

Department

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Committee Chair

Jacky C. Prucz.

Abstract

Particulate reinforced metal matrix composites (PRMMC) comprise a new class of materials whose properties can be adjusted to suit a particular application. The main purpose of producing PRMMC is to achieve lightweight materials with added properties like high stiffness, high ultimate strength and hardness.;In this study we deal with PRMMC manufactured by a novel technology involving the pressure less infiltration of aluminum into a mass of ceramic reinforcement particles. Basic tests like tension test, three point bending test, hardness tests and coefficient of thermal expansion are conducted according to the ASTM standards in order to characterize the material. All these tests are conducted for the matrix alloy, for 30% and 45% reinforced MMC. It was found that due to the presence of SiC particles there was a considerable increase in Young's modulus, hardness and flexural strength of the material. The coefficient of the thermal expansion decreased due to the presence of the SiC particles. However the addition of SiC reinforcement reduces the ductility of the material making it very brittle.;In addition to the above tests, a design for testing of bolted joints of MMC has been developed and implemented. Various parameters like clamping force, e/d ratio and w/d ratios are varied in order to investigate the effect on mode of failure and ultimate failure load of the MMC. It has been found that the major mode of failure in PRMMC is due to net-section failure on account of its brittle nature. Also higher clamping force provides higher frictional resistance and lateral support as a result of which the ultimate failure of MMC increases even though the mode of failure remains the same.

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