Evaluation of Mechanical and Tribological Aspect of Self-Lubricating Cu-6Gr Composites Reinforced with SiC–WC Hybrid Particles

Abstract

Because of their high thermal conductivity, good corrosion resistance, and great mechanical qualities, copper matrix composites are appealing materials utilized in a variety of industries. This study investigates the mechanical properties of copper–graphite (Cu–Gr) matrix composites reinforced with silicon carbide (SiC) and tungsten carbide (WC) particles by hot pressing using powder metallurgy method. The goal is to investigate the influence of the reinforcement ratio on the mechanical characteristics of copper composite materials generated (density, hardness, flexural strength, and wear resistance). SEM, EDS, and X-RD analysis were used to perform metallographic examinations. The highest relative density with a value of 98.558% was determined in the C3 sample. The findings revealed that when the reinforcement ratio was raised, the hardness rose. The highest hardness value was observed in the C6 sample with an increase of 12.52%. Sample C4 (with the lowest SiC and WC particles ratio) had the highest bending stress (233.18 MPa). Bending stress increased by 35.56% compared to the C1 sample. The lowest specific wear rates were found in the C4 sample, with a decrease of 82.57% compared to the C1 sample. The lowest wear rate (6.853 × 10−7 mm3/Nm) also occurred in the C4 sample. The microstructural analysis showed that the hybrid reinforcement particles exhibited a homogeneous distribution in the copper matrix. X-RD analysis showed that there was no intermediate reaction between the parent matrix and the hybrid reinforcements. A good interfacial bond was observed between the matrix structure and the hybrid reinforcements. The motivation of this research was to utilise the advantages of the unique features of SiC–WC hybrid particles to improve the performance of newly developed Cu-6Gr composites for wear-resistance applications.

An integrated experimental and analytical approach on mechanical characterization of advanced powder metallurgy aluminium metal matrix composites reinforced with different particulates

“…In casting process of Al/SiC composites, silicon carbide particles agglomerate resulting in a weak bond with the matrix [7]. Silicon carbide and alumina (Al 2 O 3 ) are commonly used reinforcement materials due to their favourable properties and due to high interfacial bonding with the aluminium metal matrix leading to high wear resistance [8][9][10][11]. Numerous researchers have conducted tests to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of Aluminium Metal Matrix Composite Specimen, processed through powder compaction process [12][13][14][15].…”

Synthesis of an Aluminum Alloy Metal Matrix Composite Using Powder Metallurgy: Role of Sintering Parameters

“…Silicon carbide and alumina (Al 2 O 3 ) are the commonly chosen and used reinforcements for aluminum and other metal matrixes due to a combination of favorable properties, including the following: (i) a high service temperature; (ii) a high hot strength; (iii) a high elastic modulus; and (iv) good thermal shock resistance. In addition, they have the tendency to form a strong interfacial bond with the aluminum metal matrix and have a high wear resistance [8][9][10][11].…”

Gene Expression Programming Model for Tribological Behavior of Novel SiC–ZrO2–Al Hybrid Composites

“…ZrO 2 is a readily available, reasonably priced metal oxide with exceptional thermal, mechanical, and tribological properties [ 6 ]. There are no specific results for SiC–ZrO 2 –Al hybrid composites made utilizing the PM process, according to the extensive examination of several research publications [ 18 , 19 ].…”