Exploration of wear characteristics in aluminium-silicon carbide metal matrix composites for aerospace and automotive applications

Abstract In this investigation, two metal matrix composites were synthesised employing the vertical stir-casting methodology, amalgamating aluminium with silicon carbide (SiC) at concentrations of 5% and 12%. To assess the tribological properties of these composites, a pin-on-drum wear analysis was executed. Throughout this scrutiny, meticulous monitoring of wear losses was undertaken over a predetermined traversal distance while subjecting the specimens to incremental loads spanning from 1, 2, & 3 kilograms. The results unequivocally demonstrated that, in concert with the increase in applied loads, the composite containing 12% silicon carbide exhibited a conspicuous mitigation in wear losses vis-à-vis its counterparts containing 5% silicon carbide. This augmented wear resistance observed in the 12% silicon carbide composite can be attributed to the heightened mass fraction of SiC particulates integrated into the composite matrix. These SiC particulates, functioning as reinforcing agents, contributed to an amplification in the composite's hardness and wear resistance. These findings not only yield invaluable insights into the tribological behaviour of Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs) but also elucidate the potential impact of supplementary performance parameters on their wear characteristics.