Synthesis and Dry Sliding behaviour of LM24-TiB₂ Reinforced Particulate Composite

Abstract

The existing effort deals with synthesis of (LM24) composite developed by reinforcing 3wt % and 5wt % TiB2 particles in the size range of 20-60 μm in the LM24 matrix. Hardness of the alloy and the composites were evaluated to see the changes in the hardness of the materials. The sliding wear tests were performed using pin on disc machine to study the wear properties. Effect of various experimental parameters like sliding distance, and applied pressure were studied on sliding wear response of the alloy and the composite. Micro structural examination of the alloy and composite was done to see the structural changes and distribution of the particles in the matrix. Worn surfaces were examined to see the mechanism of material removal. Results show that reinforcement of TiB2 particles in LM24 alloy increases the hardness and wear resistance. Microstructural study of the base alloy LM24 and composites were performed having special attention to the dispersion of TiB2 particles in LM24 base alloy matrix and interface closeness between TiB2 particles and LM24 alloy matrix. The microstructure of aluminium alloy shows primary Al dendrites and intermetallic phases around in the inter-dendrites region. The TiB2 particles were noted to be more or less uniformly distributed within the metallic matrix and these particles were trapped within the primary aluminium dendrites instead of inter-dendritic region.The importance of this work is to study the importance of TiB2 particles in enhancing the properties of the base alloy. In general, the properties of unreinforced materials show poor mechanical as well as wear properties and there is a need to improve the properties to a certain level so that the material can be extended to a certain level for its usefulness. In the present work, it has been observed that after reinforcing TiB2 particles to the base alloy considerable amount of enhancement in the properties can be achieved. It is quite sure that this project work will certainly help in designing of the various parts.