AlSi7Mg/SiC and heterophase SiC_p+C_g composite for use in cylinderpiston system of air compressor

The article presents the results of the first phase of research on the development of manufacturing composites by pilot-scale technology. Producing of composite suspension in sufficient quantity to obtain approximately 50 casting pistons in one production cycle was the aim of this study. This allowed to assess the stability of the composite suspension manufacturing process and above all stability the casting process. Composite suspension (AlSi7Mg/SiCp and heterophase SiC_p+C_g ) were prepared in one technological cycle including refining and modification of the alloy matrix, the introduction of ceramic particles and the homogenization of the suspension under reduced pressure. Objective of this study was to determine the basic parameters of the suspension of the manufacturing process, such as metal refining period, the rate of particles introduction and time of homogenization. In addition, as a evaluation criterion of quality the manufactured composite material accepted the possibility of pre-cast piston machining.