Microstructure and mechanical properties of Al-CuAl₂ eutectic alloys solidified over a heat pipe

Abstract

Microstructural studies and mechanical properties of Al-CuAl₂ eutectic alloys solidified over a heat pipe have been presented and discussed. The role of thermal undercooling produced by solidification over a heat pipe in controlling the microstructure has been highlighted. Tensile specimens fabricated from aligned cellular Al-CuAl₂ eutectic regions are shown to have maximum strength at intermediate temperatures of 450 to 500 K. Variations in the relative plasticity of two constituent phases of the eutectic are held responsible for the temperature dependence of strength.