Particles distribution on wear behavior of an Al‐Gr_(p) composite

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to know the effect of graphite particles distribution on wear behavior of ingots of an aluminium‐graphite, Al‐Gr_(p), composite.

Design/methodology/approach

By SEM and optical microscope, it was observed that the graphite particles were entrapped and placed at different regions of the aluminium ingots as they were cooled under three different cooling rate during solidification, mantaining 4.5 wt% of graphite content. Size of particles entrapped, were measured at three different region of the ingots.

Findings

Smaller size of graphite particles distribution were found in regions where the cooling rate was higher, while bigger size were located in regions where the cooling rate was lower, this phenomenon could improve the wear resistant performance found in ingots containing smaller graphite particles.

Research limitations/implications

A suitable dispersion of small graphite particles entrapped into a fine structure of the aluminium‐graphite composite as a result of high cooling rate while casting, could be extended to another processes for future researches.

Practical implications

This material could be used in sliding mechanical pieces improved by a uniform dispersion of small particles inside.

Originality/value

The improvement of wear behavior could be succeeded by dispersion of smaller graphite particles into the ingots, influenced by a higher cooling rate, and maintaining the weight fraction content of reinforcement.

Citation

Gomez‐Garcia, C., Rodríguez, M.E., Castaño, V.M. and Herrera, A. (2007), "Particles distribution on wear behavior of an Al‐Gr_(p) composite", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 59 No. 2, pp. 77-80. https://doi.org/10.1108/00368790710731873