Structure and properties of SiC and emery powder reinforced PM 316l matrix composites produced by microwave and conventional sintering

In this work, PM 316L based composite materials reinforced with SiC and emery powders in amounts of 5, 10 and 15 vol.-% were produced. The mixed powders were compacted by uniaxial pressing at 700 MPa and processed at 1160 and 1250 degrees C for 1 h by means of conventional sintering and microwave sintering. The sintering atmospheres were Ar/H-2 95/5% for conventional sintering and Ar/H-2 90/10% for microwave sintering. Mechanical properties were evaluated with transverse rupture strength (TRS) tests. Densities and porosities were determined using Archimedes method. Sintered samples were characterised by optical microscopy and SEM. All of the composite materials had lower TRS values compared with 316L base material. Among all compositions, 5 vol.-% emery powder reinforced 316L alloy composite samples exhibited the most favourable mechanical and physical properties. The 10 vol.-% SiC containing composite samples also had acceptable properties. Moreover, microwave sintering yields better mechanical and physical properties