The influence of solution and aging treatment on the microstructure and mechanical properties of a low nickel/iron CuAl9Ni3Fe3 alloy were studied using the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and measuring hardness, tensile strength, elongation, and microhardness of the main phases. The alloy exhibits a complex microstructure, consisting of a mixture of the different κ precipitates distributed in α or β/β’ phases, which was significantly dependent on conducted heat treatments. After optimal heat treatment (quenching from 900°C/1 h; aging at 400°C/1 h), the hardness and tensile strength significantly increased compared to an as-cast alloy of approximately 60% and 110%, respectively. The excellent mechanical properties are attributed to the precipitation of the nano κ phase from β’ martensite matrix during aging.
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