Preparation and tribological behavior of Cr3C2 particles reinforced Al matrix composite

In this study, Cr3C2 particle reinforced aluminum matrix composites were fabricated by ultrasonic agitation casting method. Microstructure, mechanical properties, and tribological properties of pure aluminum and Cr3C2p/Al composites were researched systematically. Scanning electron microscopy and 3D laser scanning confocal microscope were used to study the influence of different loads (10, 20, 30, and 40 N) and Cr3C2 contents (1.0, 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 wt %) on the tribological behaviors of the composites. The results showed that 2.0 wt % Cr3C2p/Al composites exhibited the best mechanical properties and wear resistance. The average volume wear rate was about 48 % lower than that of the matrix material. The wear mechanism of the composites changed from adhesion wear to abrasive wear and fatigue wear with the addition of Cr3C2 particles. The tribological properties of 2.0 wt % Cr3C2p/Al composites under the load of 30 N were the best. The average volume wear rate was the smallest, which was about 24 % lower than that of 10 N load. The improvement of the tribological behavior of the composite was attributed to the refinement of microstructure and improvement of the mechanical properties.