The Affect of Aging Process on Wear Properties of Al6061/GNP Metal Matrix Composite

Abstract

In this study, affect of aging on wear characteristics of the nano GNP reinforced Al6061 metal matrix composites. In this scope, the samples were produced by hot press at 500 ℃ temperature under 50 MPa pressure for 30 minutes. The wear characteristics of the composites were determined using the ball-on disc wear test method. The affect of aging on the friction coefficient and wear ratio were investigated. Graphene reinforcement significantly increased the friction coefficient between the stainless steel ball and specimen but aging process lowered the coefficient of friction to a better level. Also artificially aged specimens showed significant increase in hardness values. Key factors are affecting the mechanical performance of the Al based alloy is reinforcement and aging process.