Tribological Properties of Al–SiC Metal Matrix Composites: A Comparison Between Sand Cast and Squeeze Cast Techniques

Abstract

Tribological behaviour of Al-SiC metal matrix composites prepared using two different fabrication techniques, viz. sand cast and squeeze cast techniques are studied in a multi-tribotester (TR-25, DUCOM, India) under dry sliding conditions and ambient atmosphere for varying volume fraction of reinforcement, applied load and sliding speed. Friction increases with increase in applied load and sliding speed and volume fraction of reinforcement. Wear test results show increased wear rates at higher load and speed, while increase in SiC volume fraction yields decrease in wear rate. Corrosion study conducted in 3.5 % NaCl solution shows that squeeze cast composites have better corrosion resistance than sand cast composites.Vickers's microhardness test shows improved hardness properties for squeeze cast composites compared to sand cast ones. The microstructure study of wear tracks reveals domination of abrasive wear with minor traces of adhesive wear.

Mechanical Characterization of Rapid Solidified Alsicumg Alloys by New CRSS Casting Method Under T6 Condition

“…Whereas, S. Ghosh et.al. [32] expressed that the squeeze cast Al-SiC composites have high hardness and less tribological properties compared to the sand cast alloy. Therefore it is clear that the rapid solidified (Al-Si) alloys prepared by stir-squeeze casting process under T6 condition have excellent tribological and mechanical properties compared to the regular casting methods [33][34][35][36][37][38][39].…”