Wear performance of Al–SiC–B4C hybrid composites under dry sliding conditions

Abstract

Hybrid metal matrix composites consist of a metal or an alloy matrix with strongly embedded multiple hard reinforcements to enhance the wear resistance properties. This research study emphasizes on the dry sliding wear behavior of aluminum reinforced with 5% SiC and 5% B4C hybrid composite using a pin on disc tribometer. Wear performance of the hybrid composites were evaluated over a load ranges of 20–100N, at the sliding velocities from 1 to 5m/s. Detailed metallurgical examination and energy dispersive analysis were carried out to assess the effect of SiC and B4C particles on the wear mechanisms. The Focused Ion Beam (FIB) technique is used to characterize the tribo layers that have been formed at the worn surfaces of composites. The experimental results show that the hybrid composites retain the wear resistance properties up to 60N load and sliding speed ranges 1–4m/s. The enhancement of wear resistance with small amount of SiC and B4C is achieved by the cooperating effect of reinforcement particles.