Comparative Study on Reciprocal Tribology Performance of Mono-Hybrid Ceramic Reinforced Al-9Si-3Cu Graded Composites

This research compares the reciprocating tribo-mechanical behaviour of functionally graded A333 (Al-9Si-3Cu) alloy, Al-9Si-3Cu/6wt%B4C mono-composite and Al-9Si-3Cu/6wt%B4C/4wt%TiB(2)hybrid-composite. Cylindrical test samples of both alloy and composites were horizontal centrifuge cast. Metallography of alloy revealed grain refinement and throughout presence of B4C particles along the cross-section of both functionally graded composites. Whereas, a rising gradient of TiB(2)particles were observed towards the outer zone of hybrid composite. Comparative analysis on micro-hardness and tensile strength, revealed an improvement of 37.4% and 17.6% respectively for outer hybrid-composite; 22.6%, and 12.2% respectively for outer mono-composite with respect to alloy. Reciprocating wear analysis confirmed superior anti-wearing at outer hybrid-composite. Worn morphological analysis confirmed predominant delamination wear mechanism for outer zones of alloy, mono and hybrid composites. Abrasive, adhesive and delamination wear in combination, led to oxide layer formation at intermediate sliding distances. Hybrid composite is functionally graded and developed for automotive engine component applications.

Automated summary

This research compares the reciprocating tribo-mechanical behavior of different materials, showing that the hybrid composite has superior performance, particularly in terms of higher hardness and tensile strength.