Experiment and mechanism investigation on the effect of heat treatment on residual stress and mechanical properties of SiCp/Al–Cu–Mg composites

Low-volume fraction particle-reinforced aluminum matrix composites (PRAMCs) are commonly prepared using powder metallurgy (PM) technology, followed by heat treatment processes to improve the performance of PRAMCs. PRAMCs are prone to produce significant uneven residual stresses during the quenching process. It is difficult to eliminate the quenching residual stress of PRAMCs via the heat treatment process of the matrix aluminum alloy. Therefore, this study systematically investigates the effects of solid solution and artificial aging treatment processes on residual stress, mechanical properties, and microstructure of SiCp/Al–Cu–Mg composites through orthogonal and single-factor experimental methods. After optimizing the heat treatment process, minor residual stress with a 71.6% von Mises residual stress relief rate and good comprehensive mechanical properties are achieved. Based on the experimental results, macro and micro mechanisms of residual stress evolution and strengthening of SiCp/Al–Cu–Mg composites during heat treatment are revealed, providing valuable insights into the process of heat treatment of PRAMCs.