ABSTRACT

Squeeze casting is casting pressurized by using a mold shaped die-punch where the pressure is directly
given to the molten metal in the event of freezing. Squeeze process, can improve the physical and
mechanical properties, especially in materials with aluminum base alloys. This research aims to study the
effect of pressure on the characteristics of the microstructure and mechanical properties such as hardness
and toughness of aluminum alloy composites with Al 9Zn 6Mg 3Si and Al 2O3 amplifier. Alloy is melted in
the crucible and in the kitchen stirring to optimize the mixing of the composite matrix and reinforcement
are then poured on the mold temperature 850C shaped die-punch is heated at a temperature 150C and
the squeeze pressure of 10 Kg/cm2, 20 Kg/cm2, and 30 Kg/cm2. The results show that the squeeze casting
capable of changing the structure of dendrites into globular shaped and compact so as to minimize the
incidence of porosity or void defects and improve the properties of hardness and toughness of the metal.
The greater the pressure exerted, the more dense dendritic structure of the metal, the higher the Brinell
hardness value, and higher toughness.
Keywords: Squeeze casting, pressure, aluminum, stirring, porosity, microstructure, hardness, toughness.