A model for the abrasive wear behaviour of aluminium based composites

The abrasive wear behaviour of SiCp-reinforced composites was investigated using pin-on-disc type of machine where the sample slid against SiC abrasive of different grit sizes. The abrasive wear of the composite and its alloy matrix was developed in terms of the applied load, sliding distance and particle size using factorial design. It was demonstrated through established equations that the wear rate increased with increasing applied load, abrasive size and decreased with sliding distance. In addition to this, abrasive size was found to be effective for the composite, but applied load was dominant for the alloy matrix. Moreover, the interaction of load/abrasive size was found to be effective than those of other variables. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.