Analysis of creep fracture in Al–Al4C3 composite after ECAP

Creep fracture of a composite based on an aluminum matrix reinforced by 4 vol.% Al4C3 was studied at temperatures of 623 and 723 K by small punch testing with a constant force. The composite was tested in state after equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) by two passes of route C as a final operation. It was found that the time to fracture was inversely proportional to the minimum deflection rate in a similar manner as the corresponding quantities in conventional creep tests. The fractured surfaces of the studied materials had largely intercrystalline character.

► Small punch tests of Al composite after equal channel angular pressing.
► Small-punch quantities can be linked to the creep damage tolerance factor.
► Creep fracture is strain controlled.
► Fracture surfaces have intercrystalline character.