Rapid solidification of Cu-al alloys and its effects on some of the properties of these alloys and their corrosion rates

Abstract EN

This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation of the effects of rapid solidification on the general properties of two types of copper aluminum, (Cu-Al), alloys during the process of their manufacture.

The two alloys were prepared by melting their constituents, at the same proportions recommended by the international standards, in a graphitic furnace in an oil fired furnace.

The rapid solidification unit and metal moulds were designed and fabricated in order to allow the castings in the mould to be cooled and solidified quickly.

Strips of various thicknesses ranging from 3mm to 6mm have been subjected to different cooling media including air, ordinary water and iced water.

Examinations of the fabricated castings included optical microstructure observations, Vickers hardness and tensile strength testing as well as their corrosion rates against sea water.

The results showed an improvement in some of the mechanical properties such as hardness, tensile strength and corrosion resistance of the Cu-Al alloys.