Enhancing mechanical properties for hypoeutectic Al–Si alloy through the addition of different sizes of silicon carbide particles

The mechanical properties of the composites include Reinforcement of 10 % silicon carbide particles of three sizes (30 μm, 68 μm, 83 μm) of aluminium silicon alloy (Al-7 % Si). These composites were investigated in terms of hardness, tensile strength and wear resistance. A wear test was conducted using a disc wear device. A combination of three parameters, including applied load, time and particle size, was used. The analysis of the microstructures of these materials was performed with an optical microscope and a scanning electron microscope. It was noted that the extra silicon carbide particles enhanced wear, hardness and tensile strength value. Although the elongation was reduced. The method that Taguchi uses to implement an L9 orthogonal array. To determine the best wear rate concerning the parameters influencing the wear rate, analysis of variance (ANOVA) has been applied around the parameters of applied load, time, and particle size. Minimalism is a concept that has been used to determine the dress resistance of dry sliding. Finally, it was indicated that the load applied is the main factor that determines the wear rate that overrides the particle size, which in its turn is overshadowed by the residence time of the sliding.