Influence of process parameters on the tribological behaviour of dual reinforcement (Al2O3 / Si3N4) in AA6061 metal matrix composite

Abstract

The wear behaviour of AA6061 aluminium alloy composites reinforced with aluminium dioxide, silicon nitride, and graphite was investigated and predicted in this study. The combined effect of input factors such as sliding speed, sliding distance, and applied load on the composite's friction coefficient and wear loss was investigated. The wear examinations were carried out with the help of a computerised pin on disc tribometer. To ensure that the tests were carried out in a systematic manner, the response surface methodology (RSM) technique was adopted. The ANOVA technique was selected to find the significant parameters that influence the selected responses. According to the results, RSM technique has better reliability in predicting composite's wear behaviour. The wear loss of the hybrid composite materials increases as the sliding speed, sliding distance, and applied load increase.