Effect of the reinforcing SiC, Cg and GR particles on the structure and properties of composite pistons based on AlSi7Mg2Sr0.03 alloy

The study gives characteristics of the structure and properties of the composite pistons based on AlSi7Mg2Sr0.03 alloy with different proportional content of SiC, Cg and GR particles, cast under industrial conditions. Samples taken from castings were also tested for the mechanical properties in static tensile test, and additionally measurements of Young's modulus (E) were performed and testing of mechanical properties in a compression test at elevated temperature. Regardless of the type and content of particles, small differences were observed to exist in the properties of the composite pistons. A common feature of the examined castings was the stability of properties in the compression test up to a temperature of 250°C. Upon exceeding this temperature, the compressive yield strength and the strength in compression decreased. Pistons significantly differed in terms of the weight loss after the Taber abrasion test, which had a decisive influence on their functional properties. The smallest loss of weight was found in pistons containing 10% SiC, and 10% SiC + 10% GR.