Study the enhanced mechanical properties of Al/B4C metal matrix composite

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to see how Boron carbide (B4C) reinforcement affects the mechanical and wear behaviour of Al7010 alloy in dry sliding conditions at room temperature. The liquid casting method was used to create the aluminium 7010 with B4C metal matrix composites. The flux K2TiF6 was used to address in composites with 5–20 vol% B4C, the wetting problem between AA7010 and B4C, which aids in the development of undesirable phases at interfaces. A pin on disc equipment was used to conduct wear tests on AA7010- composites against an OHNS disc. The wear tests were carried out at a sliding speed of 0.6 m/s, a distance of 1200 m, and loads of 25 and 50 N. The wear resistance of AA 7010 –B4C composites was found to be superior to that of the base alloy. After a short sliding distance, the coefficient of friction achieved a steady-state value. The composites' wear rate and coefficient of friction are significantly reduced when compared to base alloy, and it reaches its lowest value at 10 vol% B4C under all load conditions. The coefficient of friction reduces as the sliding distance rises. The B4C reinforced AA7010 composites had good wear resistance, with 10 vol% B4C being the best for achieving the lowest wear rate under all load circumstances. The composites' hardness and tensile strength improve as the B4C level rises. SEM photos were used to examine the microstructures of the worn surfaces..