Enhanced mechanical and tribological performance of AA2014-SiC metal matrix nanocomposites fabricated by a novel stir-ultrasonic-squeeze casting process

This study focuses on the investigation of AA2014-SiC MMNCs and their properties, manufactured through a novel stir-ultrasonic-squeeze casting technique. The combination of these three methods gives better dispersion of the SiC nanoparticles as well as lesser porosity of the casting. The weight percentage of SiC added was varied to study the effect of it on the properties. Microstructural analysis was carried out to understand the dispersion of SiC nanoparticles within the aluminium. The addition of SiC nanoparticles significantly improved the tensile strength, yield strength, and hardness up to 5%wt. At 7% wt. of SiC, these properties deteriorated. The tribological properties of the AA2014-SiC MMNCs were studied using a ball-on-plate linear reciprocation type multi-function tribometer. As the hardness of the composite increased with %wt of SiC, the wear rate and coefficient of friction of the composite decreased significantly up to 5 wt% SiC beyond which both the properties again have increased.