Fabrication of AA6061/B4C composites and investigation of ballistic performances

In this study, mechanical properties of B4C particulate reinforced AA6061 matrix composites produced by powder metallurgy were investigated and their ballistic performances were examined. AA6061 matrix particles have been mixed with B4C particle for 45 minute and cold pressed under 400 MPa. The pressed compacts have been sintered at 550
^o
C for one hour, and then were extruded at the same temperature. In order to improve rigidity, the T6 precipitation processes were applied to the composite samples. The ballistic performance of composite samples against 7.62×51 mm shootings were examined. Extruded plate samples have shown significantly high ballistic performance against 7.62×51 mm shootings. It is proved that the ballistic performance is increasing by using dual plate composite system against 7.62×51 mm shootings.