Experimental Investigation on Mechanical Behaviour and Wear Parameters of TiC and Graphite Reinforced Aluminium Hybrid Composites

The Objective of this work is to study the microstructures, mechanical properties and wear characteristics of Titanium carbide (TiC), Graphite reinforced Aluminium Hybrid Composites (AHCs). AHCs of varying TiC content (1-4 wt. %) were prepared by stir casting process. Microstructure analyses, Vickers hardness test, tensile strength and wear test is performed on the prepared composites and results are analysed. The results show that introducing TiC reinforcements in aluminium (Al) matrix increases hardness, tensile strength. The 4 wt. % of TiC reinforced AHC showed maximum hardness and tensile strength. Microstructural observation homogeneous distribution of TiC particles and surface defects in the Al matrix. On increasing wt. % of TiC reinforcements in AHCs, surface cracks and porosities were observed in microstructures. Pin-on-disc wear test indicated that reinforcing Al matrix with TiC, particles have increased wear resistance. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.