Dry wear and friction properties of an A356/SiC foam interpenetrating phase composite

Abstract

► A novel A356 aluminum alloy infiltrated into a silicon carbide foam composite. ► Friction coefficient and wear rate are reduced from that of the base alloy. ► Friction decreased due to lubricating effect of carbon in the silicon carbide struts. ► Wear rate of the composite increased due to hardness of the silicon carbide struts. The dry sliding wear and friction behaviors of A356 aluminum alloy and a hybrid composite of A356 aluminum alloy and silicon carbide foam in the form of an interpenetrating phase composite were evaluated using a ball-on-disk apparatus at ambient conditions. The stationary 6.35 mm alumina ball produced a wear track (scar) diameter of 7 mm on the rotating specimen surface. Three different loads; 5 N, 10 N and 20 N were applied at a constant sliding speed of 33 mm/s for both materials. Wear tracks were characterized with a scanning electron microscope and measured with an optical surface profilometer. In general, this novel A356/SiC foam composite reduced the friction coefficient and wear rate from that of the base alloy for all loading conditions. In addition, as the load increased, the friction coefficient and wear rate decreased for both materials. The results indicate the composite could be used in light-weight applications where moderate strength and wear properties are needed.