Evaluation of dry sliding wear characteristics of hybrid a356 composite

Mudashiru Lateef Owolabi 1, Babatunde Issa Akinola 1, Adewale Taiwo Olasumboye 2, Adetola Sunday Olufemi 1, * and Oyejide Ayodele James 1

1 Department Mechanical Engineering, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomosho, Nigeria.
2 Corning Research and Development Corporation, Corning Incorporated, Corning NY 14830.
 
Research Article
International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2024, 12(02), 2458–2466.
Article DOI: 10.30574/ijsra.2024.12.2.1495
Publication history: 
Received on 05 July 2024; revised on 20 August 2024; accepted on 23 August 2024
 
Abstract: 
As advancements in lightweight and synthetic materials have evolved, our ability to tailor materials to meet societal demands has expanded. Aluminium alloys, known for their high strength-to-weight ratio and cost-effectiveness, are extensively utilized in engineering applications, including structural casting and automotive components. This study employed the stir casting method to investigate the impact of silicon carbide (SiC) and graphite (Gr) on a hybrid A356 composite, aiming to enhance its tribological applicability. SiC and Gr particles were processed using a vibratory ball milling machine for two hours, followed by composite fabrication with varying particle sizes. Microstructural investigation using optical microscopy revealed maximum hardness values of 127 BHN and 125 BHN for A356 composites reinforced with 12.50% SiC, 15.50% Gr, and 11.43% SiC, 15.86% Gr, respectively. Wear rate analysis demonstrated that reinforced A356 composites exhibited higher wear resistance compared to unreinforced alloys. Notably, the sample reinforced with 11.43% SiC and 15.86% Gr displayed exceptional wear resistance. Photo micrographs of A356-SiC-Gr samples at different sliding distances, velocities, and loads revealed minimal plastic deformation during wear testing, resulting in abrasive and cohesive wear. Overall, this study underscores the effectiveness of graphite (Gr) and silicon carbide (SiC) as reinforcement materials for enhancing the tribological properties of A356 composites.
 
Keywords: 
Characterization; Composite materials; Impact; Materials; Mechanical properties of material. 
 
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