Microstructure, physical, tensile and wear behaviour of B4C particles reinforced Al7010 alloy composites

Abstract

In the present study looked into how incorporating B4C particles with a size range of 20–25 microns would affect the mechanical, wear and physical properties of composites made from Al7010 alloy. The stir cast method accounted for of the total production of B4C composites. Different mechanical properties, such as hardness, tensile behaviour, wear and density, were measured and analysed for these synthetic composites. Microstructure was characterised by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis to determine the distribution and phases of particles smaller than a micron. Wear tests were conducted on all the samples at varying loads and speeds. Hardness and tensile strength of Al7010 alloy were improved by adding B4C particles sized 20–25 microns, with only a minor decrease in elongation. Further, as B4C particles accumulated, the density of the Al7010 alloy decreased. SEM examination revealed a wide range of fracture behaviours upon tensile stress. Load and sliding speeds affected the wear behaviour of Al7010 alloy and its composites.