PROSPECTS FOR GRAPHITE ALUMINUM COMPOSITES IN ENGINEERING INDUSTRIES

A casting process has been developed to prepare a master composite by which above 50 vol % graphite can be dispersed in aluminium alloy matr ix. These master composites can be used to prepare 3-5 vol% graphite c omposite by dilution. Some of the important aspects of meltig and cast ing practices, distribution of graphite particles and mechanical prope rties of these composites have also been discussed. The prototype comp onents developed and evaluated in collaboration with user industries h ave shown high prospects for these composites as self lubricating bodi es in engineering industries.