Wear behaviour of Al 7075/SiC/Mg metal matrix nano composite by liquid state process

Abstract

AA7075 base composites, reinforced using nano silicon carbide, contain average particle size 50 nm that is manufactured via stir casting technique, and also their rate of wear and friction coefficient was examined. During the present investigation, applied load and the weight percentage of nano silicon carbide (SiC) varying from 1, 2, 3 and 4% have been studied. The dry sliding wear characteristics of nanocomposites were analysed through pin-on-disk apparatus. By considering sliding speeds of 3and 4 m/s on applied loads of 20, 30 and 40 N. The outcomes reveal that the ceramic reinforcement of the matrix metal with nano-SiC particles up to weight percentage of 4 decreases the rate of wear. The results indicate that by increasing applied load and sliding distance the wear of the test samples raises linearly. The weight loss and friction coefficient relatively reduce with enhancing weight percentage of nano reinforcements. The wear out surfaces are analysed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) which shows that the small grooved zones and minor cracks are identified on the worn out surface of the composite. It signifies abrasive wear behaviour, which is generally of hard SiC particles subjected on the worn surfaces. Moreover, it was noticed from the test results that the wear rate reduces gradually with improving weight percentage of nano-SiC and friction coefficient decreases linearly with increasing load on the specimens, and weight percentage of SiC. The most efficient result attained at 4% weight percentage.