Modeling and optimization of impact toughness in tantalum oxide-modified Al-Si alloys

Optimization of technological processes through mathematical modeling reduces the number of experimental studies and leads to improved technological efficiency. In this paper, based on the results of modifying aluminum-silicon system alloys with tantalum oxide, the effect on one of their mechanical properties – impact toughness – was optimized using mathematical modeling. The samples were cast in foundry furnaces, and experimental investigations were carried out under laboratory conditions. The impact toughness of the samples was determined using a JBW-300 pendulum impact testing machine. Based on the obtained results, a relationship graph was developed showing the dependence between the amount of tantalum oxide used for modification and the impact toughness of the aluminum-silicon alloy under study. Using this experimentally obtained graph, the results were mathematically modeled. It was found that the presence of tantalum particles in the range of 0.3-0.5 % in the aluminum-silicon alloy composition has a positive effect on its impact toughness. At the end of the paper, the authors’ conclusions are presented based on the conducted experiments and the results obtained.