MPFEM simulation on hot-pressing densification process of SiC particle/6061Al composite powders

• Published in: The Journal of physics and chemistry of solids 2021-12, Vol.159, p.110259, Article 110259
• Main Authors: Xu, Lei, Wang, Yasong, Li, Changyun, Ji, Guoliang, Mi, Guofa
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Composite powders; Densification mechanism; Hot pressing; Multi-particle finite element method; Relative density
• ISSN: 0022-3697; 1879-2553
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jpcs.2021.110259

A hot-pressed compact with high density and uniform stress plays a decisive role in improving the quality of sintered composites. The multi-particle finite element method was utilized to simulate the hot-pressing densification process of SiC particle (SiCp)/6061Al composite powders with huge differences in stiffness and plasticity. The densification mechanism was revealed at macro and particulate scales. Two- and three-dimensional finite element models were both constructed to investigate the effects of pressing temperature, SiCp content and size ratio of 6061Al and SiCp on the relative density and stress distribution of the powder mass. Simulation results demonstrate that pressing temperature and the content and distribution of SiCp have significant effects on the required pressing pressure, relative density and stress distribution of the compact. Compared with cold compaction, the pressing pressure required for compaction can be reduced by 2–3 times at 390–515 °C. The intermediate particle size ratio of 6061Al and SiCp is beneficial for relatively high relative density and low stress of the compact. The fitting of the simulation results verifies the robustness of the established finite element model. [Display omitted] •A general model for compaction simulation of composite powders is provided.•The model considers the deformation and discrete characteristics of particles.•Hot-pressing densification mechanism is revealed at macro and particulate scales.