Microstructural characterization of squeeze-cast Al–8Fe–1.4V–8Si

This paper investigates the effect of vanadium on the composition and morphology of intermetallics formed during the squeeze casting of Mg-modified Al–8Fe–1.4V–8Si alloy in both monolithic form and as-reinforced with 7.58, 10.52 and 15.68 wt.% SiC particles (SiCp). Iron intermetallics of α-Al7(Fe,V)3Si and β-Al18Fe11Si phases were predominantly observed in the alloy and composite. SEM studies and the EDX analyses revealed that refinement of Fe-intermetallics and modification of β-phases to less deleterious morphologies of α-phases has been achieved by vanadium addition of 1.4%. Also, heat treatment enhances V diffusion and SiC particles act as nucleation sites for the formation of finer α-intermetallics. Fractographs exhibited cracking of long β-phases and partial decohesion of SiCp from the matrix.