The Effect of Mold Rotational Speed on Mechanical Properties of Functionally Graded Polymeric Matrix Composites

Abstract

In this research, a functionally graded polymeric matrix composites (FGPMCs) were produced using centrifugal casting method. These composites were fabricated from unsaturated polyester resin as a matrix and reinforced with silicon carbide particles (SiCp) of (106μm) and (6%)bulk volume fraction, using different mold rotational speeds(400,500,600 R.P.M) at room temperature (22Co). Additional (3) samples of pure polyester were manufactured at the same conditions for comparison purpose . The aim of the present research was to study the effect of mold rotational speed on local values of volume fraction, hardness and Young modulus at specific points along the graded samples. Hardness was measured at these points then graded samples were cut to eight portions . Density and volume fraction were evaluated, then standard homogenous samples of constant but different volume fraction were manufactured. Results shows that local values of volume fraction, hardness and Young Modulus decreased in nearby positions of the center of rotation and increased in positions far away from the center of rotation with increasing mold rotational speed.