Modeling the abrasive wear behavior of in-situ synthesized magnesium RZ5/TiB2 metal matrix composites

Abstract

In the present study, the statistical analysis on tribological behavior of RZ5/TiB2 magnesium-based metal matrix composites is carried out using Taguchi design and analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique. Taguchi analysis using signal-to-noise ratio indicates that the sliding distance and wt.% TiB2 are the most significant factors in evaluating weight loss and coefficient of friction, respectively. The regression equation is formulated utilizing the ANOVA technique to study the output responses based on the input abrasive wear test experimental results. The regression equation is validated through a comprehensive study taking a series of abrasive wear tests and indicates the percentage deviation of regression modeling is in the range of ± 10%. The individual and combined effect of wear parameters on tribological behavior are investigated through the main effect plots and response surface plots. The micrograph of the worn surface of RZ5/TiB2 composites is studied using field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), indicating the formation of an oxide layer on the worn surface.