Wear and friction behavior of Al-TiB2-nano-Gr hybrid composites fabricated through ultrasonic cavitation assisted stir casting

Abstract

The present study reports the role of nano-graphite particles in determining wear and friction behavior of Al-TiB2-nano-Gr hybrid composites. Ultrasonic cavitation assisted stir casting method has been used for fabrication of composites. Al-Si5Cu3 alloy is used as base alloy along with micro sized TiB2 hard ceramic particles (2.5 and 5.5 wt%) as reinforcement and nano-Gr particles (2 and 4 wt%) as solid lubricant additives. SEM micrographs, EDAX spectrum and optical images are considered to observe uniform dispersion of reinforcing phases. Micro-hardness is evaluated using Vicker’s microhardness tester. Hardness is seen to increase with incorporation of TiB2 while the same decreases with incorporation of graphite. Wear and friction of composites are tested for varying load (10 to 40 N) and sliding speed (0.2 to 0.4 m s−1) using a pin-on-disk tribometer. Worn surfaces are characterized using SEM and EDAX analysis. Wear resistance of composites increases with incorporation of reinforcing phases together. Nano-Gr particles are easily sheared out from the sub-surface and provide a layer over the tribo-surface of composite that enhances friction and wear behavior. Wear mechanism in composites is predominantly adhesion while abrasion and ploughing is prominent in base alloy.