Optimizing Mechanical Properties of Magnesium Matrix Composites via Stir Casting for Automobile Applications

Abstract

The aim of the present research is on the automobile application of magnesium matrix composites. To this purpose, optimal mechanical properties of MMCs are studied through the conduction of an experimental investigation. In this research, eight samples are to be considered based on the use of various reinforcement material types and their percentage. Magnesium matrix composite samples are to be manufactured by the use of the stir casting process. The following mechanical properties are to be calculated for every sample: tensile strength, flexural strength, impact resistance and hardness. The experimental results show that the 6 th sample, which is a magnesium matrix reinforced with graphite material at the rate of 10%., was among those with the highest mechanical properties in terms of tensile strength , which was 135 MPa, flexural strength, which amounted to 120 MPa, impact resistance, which reached 7.0 J, and hardness, which was 97 HV. Therefore, one can make a conclusion that it is important to optimize the reinforcement material and its percentage when considering the possibility to improve the mechanical performance of MMCs. That said, the given research offers insights into the potential of MMCs as lightweight materials with high performance in vehicle construction.

Keywords

• magnesium matrix composites
• mechanical properties
• optimization
• automobile applications
• artificial neural network