Feasibility Study on Tribology and Surface Morphology Characterization of Hybrid Composites

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate the tribological behaviour of aluminium hybrid composites. Aluminium alloy (LM 25) is utilised in the aerospace and defence industries. Its wear properties are further improved to increase the lifespan of the components used in these sectors. Due to their ability to resist wear, graphite and silicon carbide are often used to manufacture machine tools. The objective is to identify the wear parameters of the LM 25 alloy. It was examined after stir-cased and strengthened with silicon carbide and graphite in various weight ratios. Methods: The dry sliding wear behaviour for aluminium alloys containing 2, 4, and 6 wt.% silicon carbide and a fixed 2 wt.% graphite is investigated using stir-casting composites. These process parameters included loads of 15, 30, and 45 N, sliding speeds of 0.55, 1.10, and 1.65 m/s, and sliding distances of 333, 666, and 999 m. Findings: According to the test results, the overall wear loss of SiC-reinforced hybrid composites was less compared to both unreinforced alloys and Al/Gr composites. The tribological behaviour of a composite consisting of 4% SiC and 2% Gr was significantly improved compared to the base alloy. Novelty: The novelty of this study is to induce a brake disc made of an Al alloy with wear-resistant SiC/Gr particle-reinforced aluminium composites committed to its surface. The role of tribology in determining material behaviour is shown to be important in controlling material removal.