Influence of the Equal Channel Angular Extrusion on the Aluminium-Fly Ash Composite
Summary This paper presents the influence of equal channel angular extrusion on the microstructure and properties of composites based on the A356.0 aluminium alloy with the addition of 6 wt.% fly ash as reinforcement. The composite was produced using the compo casting method. The microstructure of the composite was analysed using an optical microscope, computer tomography, and scanning electron microscopy. Rosettes and spheroidal particles were observed in the microstructure of the cast sample, and there was a good distribution of fly ash within the matrix. Equal channel angular extrusion was performed in three passes at the same parameters. After each pass, the microstructure was refined, and fly ash was even better mixed into the matrix. Thus, the strength and hardness of the composite increased after each pass. A fully homogeneous material was achieved after the second pass.