Enhancing wear resistance of squeeze cast hybrid aluminium matrix (LM24-SiCp-coconut shell ash) composite

Abstract

This experimental study focuses on processing of hybrid aluminium matrix (LM24-SiCp-coconut shell ash) composite for making castings through squeeze casting process. The primary objective was to analyse the influence of the process parameters namely reinforcement percentage, pouring temperature, squeeze pressure and mould temperature on wear resistance. Samples were cast for each experimental condition based on L9 (34) orthogonal array. Pin-on-disc apparatus was used to measure the wear rate. From analysis of variance (ANOVA), it was observed that reinforcement percentage and squeeze pressure were the process parameters making a noticeable improvement in wear resistance. A mathematical model representing the process was developed using nonlinear regression analysis. The optimum casting conditions were obtained through Taguchi method and genetic algorithm tool and the conditions were validated through the confirmation experiments. The results show that parametric conditions obtained through the optimisation tools exhibit about 20% improvement in wear resistance compared to the base alloy.