Study on the Tribological Characteristics of AA5010/Fly Ash/ Boron Carbide Metal Matrix Composites using Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

In this study, a metal matrix composite (MMC) made from an AA 5010 base alloy with reinforcements of fly ash (FA) and Boron carbide (B4C) was tested for its wear and frictional behavior using a stir casting technique. Fly ash of 3, 6, 9, and 12 wt. % and 3, 6, 9, and 12 wt. % of B4C reinforcements were used to accomplish the goal. The mechanical characteristics acquired at 12 wt. % of FA and B4C were determined upon first through the use of mechanical experiments. The tribology characteristics of the composite were evaluated through a pin-on-disc (POD) device in dry circumstances after being manufactured using 12 wt. % FA and B4C reinforcements. The effects of distance (1200 m, 2400 m, and 3600 m), speed (2, 4, 6 m/s), and applied load (15, 25, and 35 N) on the wear parameters of dry sliding were studied. Experiments and determining the best wear parameters can be done reasonably and accurately using a response surface methodology (RSM). The RSM was also useful in determining the most influential factor, which turned out to be the rate of wear. Finally, it was determined that the load being applied is the single most important element in determining the rate of wear. It was that the performance indicator is less sensitive to changes in sliding velocity and sliding distance.