The densification behavior of Al-20Si-5.5Fe-1.2Mg-0.5Mn powders was investigated through micro-structure analysis of sintered specimens. The specimens sintered in vacuum or in high purity (99.999%) nitrogen showed porous near-surface microstructures. The densification of near-surface part was enhanced by means of ultra-high purity (99.9999%) nitrogen atmosphere. The relationship between slow densification and oxide surfaces of Al alloy powders was discussed. And the effects of Mg addition, nitrogen gas, and humidity on densification were discussed. In addition, the rapid growth of primary Si crystals above the critical temperature was reported.

The effect of Pb addition on microstructure and wear resistance was studied in rapidly solidified Al-20Si-5Fe-xPb(x=2, 4, 6 wt.%) alloys. The R/S Al-20Si-5Fe-xPb (x=2, 4, 6 wt.%) alloys showed a fine and homogeneous microstructure and an improved wear property compared with Al-20Si-5Fe alloy, while no significant change in UTS (Ultimate Tensile Strength) was shown. Contribution of the dispersoids on the wear property was discussed by showing the plastic deformation layers formed during wear track.