STATISTICAL DETERMINATION OF THE EFFECTS OF POURING TEMPERATURE ON MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF ALUMINUM ALLOY CAST
The determination of effects of pouring temperature on mechanical properties of aluminum alloy using statistical method was successfully investigated. The automotive industry faces failures and accidents due to inadequate mechanical properties of cast parts, particularly at higher temperatures. These inadequacies in mechanical properties are not unconnected with their pouring temperature during casting. This study aims to determine the optimal pouring temperature for aluminum alloy casting to achieve optimal mechanical properties. A total of thirty-two (32) casts, were produced via sand mould at four (4) different pouring temperatures namely 660°C, 690°C, 710°C and 740°C which were achieved with the aid of a thermocouple. The specimens were afterwards tested for quality of properties such as density, hardness, water retention capacity and tensile strength, and how these mechanical properties failed under different pouring temperatures. Samples were taken to an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer to test for their chemical composition. Data obtained were analyzed using ANOVA technique. Results showed percentage composition of Al (83%), Si (11%), Cu (3%) and others (3%). It was revealed that variation in the pouring temperature significantly affected the quality of density, tensile strength and hardness, whereas, it had no significant effect on the water retention capacity of the aluminum casts. The optimal pouring temperature is 690°C, with the optimal range being 690°C and 700°C, for producing high-quality casts.
Authors : Iweriolor, S., Ugwuegbu, D.C., Christie, O.K., Ifechukwu, E.T. and Derick, N.C.
Category : Open Access Volume (Issue) : 10(1) Date Uploaded : 21st March 2024