Mechanical properties of unidirectionally solidified Al-Fe eutectic composites were compared with those of a normally cast Al-Fe eutectic alloy at various temperatures. The results obrained are as follows:
(1) The linear portion of the stress-strain curves of the unidirectionally solidified alloy was enlarged and the proportional limit showed a considerable increase. When the solidification rate was 5 to 10cm/hr, the maximum ultimate tensile strength was obtained. The slower solidification rate produced the lower tensile strength.
(2) The difference of the mechanical properties between the unidirectionally and the normally cast alloys was in the same trend over all the testing temperatures.
(3) The fracture of the unidirectionally solidified alloy was initiated when the stress carrying FeAl₃ fractured after deformation to critical elongation along the tensile direction.