Tribological performance of Ti3SiC2 enhanced Ni3Al matrix composites

Abstract

The dry sliding tribological tests of Ni3Al matrix composites with various contents of Ti3SiC2 against Si3N4 ceramic balls are carried out under 10 N–0.6 m s−1 for 30 min at 25 °C. The morphologies and compositions of worn surfaces and wear debris are systematically characterized to explore the wear mechanisms. The results indicate that different contents of Ti3SiC2 have a great influence on their tribological properties. Among all specimens, Ni3Al matrix composite containing 10 wt% Ti3SiC2 has the excellent tribological properties, whose friction coefficient and wear rate are 0.59 and 3 × 10−5 mm3N−1m−1 respectively. The excellent tribological performance can be attributed to the formation of a lubricating film consisting of an amorphous mixture of Ti and Si oxides.