Investigation on microstructures, mechanical and wear properties of Al 390/ZrO₂ composite materials fabricated by P/M method

Abstract

Purpose

Aluminium is the most proficiently and commonly used metal due to its desirable physical, chemical and mechanical properties. When Aluminium reinforced with hard ceramic particles, shows increased strength and good corrosion resistant and wear resistant qualities. In the present investigation, A390 + X vol. % Zro₂ (X = 5, 10 and 15) composites have been fabricated through P/M technique.

Design/methodology/approach

After that the microstructural properties are tested by scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis wear test is performed using pin-on-disc machine.

Findings

The wear conditions of applied load 30N and sliding velocity 1 m/s and track distance 1000m was followed. A390 + 15% Zro₂ of surface of the composites unveiled greater hardness when compared with A390 alloy.

Originality/value

A390 + 15% Zro₂ exhibited superior wear resistance than that of the matrix alloy. Thus the material proves as an excellent solution for applications that requires high wear resistance.

Citation

S, K., R, K. and Ghosh, A. (2021), "Investigation on microstructures, mechanical and wear properties of Al 390/ZrO₂ composite materials fabricated by P/M method", Multidiscipline Modeling in Materials and Structures, Vol. 17 No. 1, pp. 149-166. https://doi.org/10.1108/MMMS-10-2019-0180