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

Abstract

PurposeAluminium 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/approachAfter that the microstructural properties are tested by scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis wear test is performed using pin-on-disc machine.FindingsThe 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/valueA390 + 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.