Mechanical and Tribological Characterization of Stir Cast AA6061 T6-SiC Composite

Due to its mechanical properties, aluminium is one of the most commonly used materials by the industry. Silicon Carbide (SiC) is the most widely used reinforcement in aluminium matrix composites to improve mechanical properties and minimise wear. Composites containing AA6061 as matrix and SiC in different weight percentages were produced by stir casting processes. SiC was varied at a rate of 0, 5, 10, and 15 wt.% in the AA6061 T6 matrix. Initially characteristics like density, tensile, compression, hardness and impact strength were carried out. The tribological behaviour of the composites produced was assessed using dry sliding wear. Tribological wear was done at 5, 10, 15 wt.% SiC in the AA6061 T6 matrix. Tribological tests were conducted using the Taguchi-based L'27 orthogonal array with input parameters such as (i) SiC (wt.%), (ii) Sliding Distance (m) and (iii) Load. Coefficient of friction was the output characteristics studied. Analysis of Variance was applied to study the effect of input parameters on the output parameters. Worn surface morphology was studied using a scanning electron microscope. The dispersion of SiC in AA6061 T6 matrix was studied using scanning electron microscope and Energy dispersive X-ray analysis.