Development of Aluminium Alloy (AA6061) Composites for Automobile Exhaust Pipe
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Date
2025
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Nigerian Journal of Engineering Science and Technology Research
Abstract
This research addresses the limitations of aluminium alloy AA6061 in withstanding the harsh
conditions of automotive exhaust systems. The study aims to develop a composite material with
enhanced mechanical strength and corrosion resistance by reinforcing AA6061 with kaoline
ore and masquerade leaves. Using the stir casting method, the alloy was combined with the
reinforcements and cast into molds. The results revealed that the developed composites showed
improved properties compared to the base alloy. Hardness increased from 95.4 HBW
to 102.7 HBW, tensile strength rose to 270 N/mm², and yield strength to 240 N/mm². Corrosion
resistance was significantly enhanced, with potential ranging from -300 mV to -550 mV,
compared to -90 mV to -250 mV for the unreinforced alloy. Microstructural analyses confirmed
uniform reinforcement distribution. The study recommends further optimization of
reinforcement ratios and casting parameters to maximize performance for automotive
Description
Keywords
Composites, Microstructure, Exhaust-pipe, Aluminium alloy, Automotive