Development of processing maps for 2124Al/SiCp composites

2124Al alloy reinforced with 15% SiC composites made by powder metallurgy route was subjected to compression testing over a range of strain rates (0.001–1.0 s−1) and temperatures (300–500 °C). Power dissipation efficiency and instability parameter were evaluated and plotted with temperature and log stain rate. Processing maps were constructed by superimposition of contour plots of power dissipation efficiency and instability parameter. The dynamic recrystallization zone and instable zones were identified in the processing map. Microstructural examination was performed for validation. The processing maps can be used to select optimum strain rates and temperatures for effective hot working of 2124Al/15% SiC composites. The activation energy map was also constructed to obtain safe processing window for hot working.