Effect of Microstructure on Mechanical Properties of BA1055 Bronze Castings

The article presents research results performed on aluminum bronze CuAl10Fe5Ni5 (BA1055) castings used for marine propellers. Metallographic studies were made on light microscope and a scanning electron microscope to assess quantitatively and qualitatively the alloy microstructure. It has been shown that the shape, size and distribution of the iron-rich κ−phase precipitates in bronze microstructure significantly affect its mechanical properties. With an increase in the number of small κ−phase precipitates increases the tensile strength of castings, while the presence of large globular precipitates improves ductility. Fragmentation and shape of κ−phase precipitates depends on many factors, particularly on the chemical composition of the alloy, Fe/Ni ratio, cooling rate and casting technology.