Effect of reinforcement size hybridization on the wear properties of SiCp/Cu Composites

Abstract

Abstract Reinforcement size is an important factor that influences the mechanical and tribological properties of particulate reinforced metal matrix composites (PRMMCs). However, relatively few works have been carried out to investigate this issue. There are still many problems to be solved, on the optimum design of PRMMCs of tribological applications. In this work, copper-matrix composites reinforced with SiC particles of mono-size and hybrid-size are fabricated through a powder-metallurgy plus hot-extrusion method. The main purpose is to investigate the effect of reinforcement size hybridization on the dry sliding wear behavior of PRMMCs. The results indicate that finer particles result in a better reinforcing effect and significantly reduce the plastic flow and adhesive transfer of surface and subsurface material. The deeply embedded coarse particles bear the external applied load and resist the plowing effect of the counterpart. The different roles of the particulate components with various sizes promote the exertion of the other’s strengthening function, therefore resulting in higher wear resistance.