Journal of Advanced Materials in Engineering (Esteghlal)

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Aluminum matrix composites reinforced with Al2O3 and SiC particles (5 Vol%) were produced using the hot powder extrusion method. Extrusion temperature and extrusion reduction in area were chosen in the range of 500 to 600°C and 90 to 95%, respectively. The physical and mechanical properties of the extruded composites such as density, tensile strength, elongation and microhardness were evaluated and discussed as a function of extrusion parameters. The microstructure and fracture surface of the products were examined using SEM. The results showed that the composites were fully densified and reinforcement particles were distributed uniformly in the matrix. Presence of Al2O3 and SiC particles increased both strength and microhardness, but decreased the ductility of the composites. Experimental results for hot extrusion of the compacted powder billets also showed that the extrusion pressure was dependent on the ram speed or deformation strain rate.

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In this paper, bare spot defects in hot-dip galvanized sheets were studied in terms of the microstructure and their influence on the corrosion and mechanical properties. Surface characteristics and microstructural features were examined by scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy microanalysis system. The results showed that the major cause of the bare spots was the lack of wetability of the sheet surface due to contamination, improper heat treatment or chemical composition. Corrosion resistance was evaluated by standard salt spray test. Mechanical properties were examined by tensile testing. The time to red rust was much shorter on the bare spots as compared to other regions, but it appeared that bare spot defects had no significant effect on the mechanical properties of the galvanized steel sheets.