Wear properties of thixoformed and high pressure die cast aluminium alloys for connecting rod applications in compressors

Hypereutectic aluminium casting alloys are attractive candidates for connecting rod applications in compressors. The wear properties of these alloys are largely controlled by their microstructural features which in turn are affected by the processing route. Several hypo- and hypereutectic Al-Si alloys were produced by high pressure die casting and thixoforming in the present work. The former route produced a very fine microstructure while relatively coarser, globular alpha-Al matrix dominated in thixoformed grades. A modified Falex Block on Ring equipment was employed to investigate the wear properties of these alloys. Wear tests were carried out under service conditions in the lubricated state at 75 degrees C. The superior wear properties of hypereutectic alloys produced by high pressure die casting with respect to the thixoformed variety is accounted for by the very fine microstructure with a fine dispersion of primary Si particles in the former. Of the two production routes employed, thixoforming had a favorable effect on wear properties at equal Si levels.