Wear Performance of A356 Matrix Composites Reinforced with Different Types of Reinforcing Particles

To improve the wear resistance of Al-Si alloys, different types of reinforcing particles such as SiC, TiC, ZrO2, and B4C were used to produce matrix composites by friction stir processing (FSP). First, microstructural properties of different locations of stir zone (SZ) in the FSPed specimens such as advancing side, retreating side, shoulder-affected area, and pin-affected area were investigated. The results demonstrate that Si particles size is not the same in different SZ subdomains. SEM investigation was performed in order to investigate the particles distribution in different areas of the SZ as well as bonding quality between particles and metal matrix. Hardness and wear tests were carried out to determine mechanical and wear properties of the composites. The pin-on-disk wear tests were performed at room temperature, with the normal applied loads of 5, 10, and 20 N and sliding speed of 1 and 2 m/s. All fabricated composites show higher resistance in wear than A356 alloy. Wear test results show, by increasing the normal load and sliding velocity, the wear loss weight of all composites increased gradually.