Interfacial Characteristics of Al/Cu Hybrid Materials Prepared by Compound Casting

Aluminum-based hybrid parts were fabricated through a compound casting process with Al or Cu inserts which can be used for applications requiring high conductivity. Because the interface stability between the insert and the aluminum matrix is important, the effects of process variables on the interfacial adhesion strength were investigated. Additions of Cu and Mg to Al melt were found to enhance the adhesion strength, though the melt fluidity was slightly deteriorated when a small amount of Mg was added. An isothermal heating process after casting further improved the strength. However AlCu intermetallic compounds formed and their thickness increased during the heating process. As a result, deterioration in the interfacial adhesion strength was observed after an excessive annealing treatment.