Effect of forging on the microstructure and tensile properties of 2024Al/Al18B4O33w composite

The hot forging of the 2024Al/Al18B4O33w composite fabricated by the squeeze casting technique was carried out at 450 °C to improve the ductility. The microstructure and tensile properties of the as-cast and forged 2024Al/Al18B4O33w composites are studied. Non-homogeneous distribution of the reinforcement whiskers was revealed in the as-cast composite. The forging led to significant variations in the average length and distribution of the reinforcement whiskers in comparison with the as-cast composite. After forging, the tensile tests showed an increase in the ultimate tensile strength at room temperature and a decrease at elevated temperature. The forging highly increased the ductility both at room and elevated temperature.