Effect of hybrid ultrasonic and mechanical stirring on the distribution of m-SiCp in A356 alloy

Abstract

The present study details the micro-scale silicon carbide particle (m-SiCp) homogeneous distribution in an A356 alloy through hybrid ultrasonic-stirring melt treatment under different operation conditions. Ultrasonically excited fluids were studied by particle image velocimetry to estimate the efficiency of the acoustic streaming in different distances to the sonotrode. Distinct particle approaches to introduce the melt and stirring techniques were performed to determine a successful route to promote a homogenous distribution of reinforcement particles. Results showed that the addition of m-SiCp in the semisolid state significantly improved particle wettability, preventing rapid sedimentation. The combination of ultrasonic induced streaming and mechanical stirring is an effective tool for the homogeneous distribution of m-SiCp along the casting specimen.