Multi-scale dynamic analysis of metal matrix composite shafts through morphological evaluations

Abstract

This paper reports the methodology for predicting the effective dynamic properties of metal matrix composite long and slender shafts. Stir casting process was employed to manufacture metal matrix composite shafts with alumina as reinforcement and aluminum 6061 as matrix material. Microstructural images for unetched samples were scanned through scanning electron microscopy. The presence of particles was confirmed through energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis. Parameters such as aspect ratio, reinforcement percentage, and the average particle size of the reinforcement were determined through the image processing of scanning electron microscopy images. The effective properties of these composites have been predicted through micromechanical modeling by using these parameters. These properties were employed to calculate dynamic parameters computationally. These results were compared with analytical results, along with experimental results that were recorded and analyzed by u'sing a digital vibration analyzer OROS36®. This novel approach of predicting the results of specific modulus and the natural frequency of the shaft by using exact morphological parameters provided fewer errors when compared with experimental results.