Abstract
Abstract In this study, microsized and nanosized silicon carbide particles (SiCps) were successfully incorporated into commercial pure copper to form a surface metal matrix composite by friction stir processing (FSP) at low-heat-input conditions. A cluster of blind holes on a copper plate was used as particle deposition technique during the fabrication of the composite. Pin-on-disc testing was performed under dry sliding conditions to determine the wear characteristics of prepared composite surfaces. The homogeneity of particle distribution both inside the copper matrix and in the wear scar was determined via microstructural observations. It was observed that both microsized and nanosized SiCps were well distributed and homogenous in a stir zone; particles observed were without defects, and good bonding was observed between SiCps and the copper matrix. Comparisons between Cu/SiCp composite layers and friction stir processed (FSPed) Cu and as-received Cu showed that Cu/SiCp nanocomposite layers exhibited superior microhardness and dry sliding wear characteristics.
Highlights
Pure copper and its alloys are attracting considerable interest worldwide because of their high thermal/ electrical conductivity, high plasticity, high formability, and good corrosion resistance
It was experimentally observed that peak temperatures were higher on the advancing side (AS) than retreating side (RS) in all three samples (FSPed Cu, microcomposites, and nanocomposites) processed at 500 rpm and 50 mm/min [17]
The peak temperature rise varies between 328 °C and 358 °C, indicating that low-heat-input conditions occurred during friction stir processing (FSP), where the grain refinement phenomenon was dominant, and that no phase transformation occurred during FSP [18]
Summary
Pure copper and its alloys are attracting considerable interest worldwide because of their high thermal/ electrical conductivity, high plasticity, high formability, and good corrosion resistance. Their poor wear resistance causes some limitations for applications [1]. It is of significant interest to optimize the surface of components by reinforcing them with ceramic particles while leaving the bulk properties of the inner matrix intact. Pass further enhanced the distribution of SiCps and increased the hardness of the composite layer. Results show that the change of tool rotational direction between FSP passes, increase in FSP passes, and decrease of SiCp size enhance hardness and wear properties
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