Ranking Analysis of AA7075-Cr Alloy Composites Based on Physical, Mechanical, and Sliding wear Assessment Using Hybrid ENTROPY-VIKOR Approach

This research investigates physical, mechanical, and sliding wear assessment of chromium (0-2 wt% @ step of 0.5 %)-reinforced AA7075 alloy composites (i.e., five composites, namely ACR-0, ACR-0.5, ACR-1, ACR-1.5, and ACR-2). The composition design was fabricated using the stir-casting route. The sample preparation was as per the test standards. Taguchi's approach has been used to design experimental trials and parameter optimization. This follows ANOVA helping in knowing the order of significant factors affecting sliding wear response. The wear sample morphology was studied to understand wear mechanisms. Microstructure studies and X-ray diffraction studies have been reported. It is observed that chromium reinforcement tends to enhance the strength, hardness, and wear performance of the alloy. The voids presence has been successfully arrested. The performance data were analyzed using a hybrid ENTROPY-VIKOR decision-making method. It is observed that the outcome of the decision-making method is in line with the subjective analysis. Thus, ACR-2 alloy composites were observed to optimize the overall performance and hence recommended for structural and tribological applications like gears, slideways, etc.