VANASIL INVESTIGATION INCLUDING DATA ON A LOW EXPANSION ALUMINUM POWDER ALLOY
Abstract
An Al powder alloy was produced with a linear coefficient of expansion of 9.0 to 9.9 x 10-6 in./in./F (68 to 212F) and other physical properties equal to that of Vanasil. However, the machinability was superior to that of Vanasil. The alloy was produced by ball milling a mixture of 13% Si(-325 mesh)-3.5% Ni(-325 mesh) and -100 mesh atomized Al under methyl alcohol in a porcelain jar for 20 hr with porcelain cylinders as a grinding medium. The test bars which were compacted at 80,000 psi were sintered at 1000, 1020, and 1040 for 1 and 2 hr in an H atmosphere with a -43F dew point. The breaking strengths were 182 to 234 lb. A reduction in the section size of Vanasil castings decreased the Si segregation by increasing the freezing rate. Test data for 2 trail computers build on A-132 base castings showed satisfactory performance before and after temperature cycling from -60 to 165F. Further tests are planned to determine the use of A-132 castings instead of Vanasil for low-expansion instrument castings.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 06, 1953
- Accession Number
- AD0012956
Entities
People
- B. C. Vaughn