Investigations on tribological behaviour of AA7075-TiO2 composites under dry sliding conditions

Abstract

Purpose Aluminium and its alloys are the most preferred material in aerospace and automotive industries because of their high strength-to-weight ratio. However, these alloys are found to be low wear resistance. Hence, the incorporation of ceramic particles with the aluminium alloy may be enhanced the mechanical and tribological properties. The purpose of this study is to optimize the specific wear rate and friction coefficient of titanium dioxide (TiO2) reinforced AA7075 matrix composites. The four wear control factors are considered, i.e. reinforcement (Wt.%), applied load (N), sliding velocity (m/s) and sliding distance (m). Design/methodology/approach The composites were fabricated through stir casting route with varying weight percentages (0, 5, 10 and 15 Wt.%) of TiO2 particulates. The mechanical properties of the composites were studied. The specific wear rate and friction coefficient of the newly prepared composites was determined by using a pin-on-disc apparatus under dry sliding conditions. Experiments were planned as per Taguchi’s L16 orthogonal design. Signal-to-noise ratio analysis was used to find the optimal combination of parameters. Findings The mechanical properties such as yield strength, tensile strength and hardness of the composites significantly improved with the addition of TiO2 particles. The analysis of variance result shows that the applied load and reinforcement Wt.% are the most influencing parameters on specific wear rate and friction coefficient during dry sliding conditions. The scanning electron microscope morphology of the worn surface shows that TiO2 particles protect the matrix from more removal of material at all conditions. Originality/value This paper provides a solution for optimal parameters on specific wear rate and friction coefficient of aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) using Taguchi methodology. The obtained results are useful in improving the wear resistance of the AA7075-TiO2 composites.