A study on mechanical properties of tungsten carbide reinforced magnesium metal matrix composites for the application of piston

To improve the efficiency, one of the important strategies adopted by automotive manufacturing industries is the lightweight materials usage. Magnesium based metal matrix composites (MMC) have the prospective to meet the demanded requirements. In this study, AZ91 based MMCs reinforced with 1.5 and 3.0 wt % of tungsten carbide (WC) particulates were investigated as the alternatives to existing material. The samples were then solutionised at 420 °C and artificially aged at 175 °C to improve their mechanical properties. Characterization revealed that there were the reductions in tensile strength whereas the enhancement in compressive strength with WC addition into the matrix. At product level experimental analysis, quasi-static load testing of pistons showed that AZ91 alloy piston resisted a load of 10 kN. WC addition improved the strength of the pistons by 30% and 70% (approx.). It encouraged the magnesium-based materials usage for piston application with a maximum weight reduction of 35%.