Mechanical and wear properties of Al7075- B4C–Gr metal matrix composites fabricated by the using stir casting method

Abstract

Engine parts like pistons, cylinders and valves are made of aluminium metal matrix composite due to their less weight and high thermal conductivity. Aluminium has less wear resistance and a high thermal expansion coefficient is the main disadvantage. Engine parts are subject to high mechanical thermal stress leads to experiences of wear during service which consequently reduces the service life of the component. In this research work, hardness and wear Behaviour of Al7075 with Boron Carbide 5% and Graphite particles as reinforcements were investigated Graphite and Boron carbide is mixed with aluminium in weight percent of boron carbide 5% (i.e. 50 g per kg) and Graphite 1%, 2% (i.e. 10,20 g per kg) of different samples using a stir casting process.Adding Graphite and boron carbide to aluminium (Sample2 (Al85 %+ B4C 10 % +Gr 5 %)) improves the tensile strength increases 3 % compare to Sample1 (Al 90 %+ B4C 5 % +Gr 5 %). Sample3 (Al80% + B4C 10 % + Gr 10 %) having 1.12 % higher hardness compare to Sample1 (Al 90 %+ B4C 5 % +Gr 5 %) hardness of the material gradually increases by adding boron carbide.