Investigation on Mechanical and Tribological Characteristics Cu/Si3N4 Surface Composite Developed Through Friction Stir Processing

Copper surface composite are gaining attention in recent years because of its tailor made properties. The current work emphasized on characterization of copper surface composite manufactured through solid state processing technique friction stir processing. The pure copper is used as matrix material and reinforced with Si3N4 particles at various volume percentages of 5, 10 and 15. The fabricated composites were tested to assess various properties such as microstructure, tensile, hardness and wear. The microstructure revealed that dynamic recrystallization is occurred during FSP under the action of rotating tool. Hardness and wear resistance of the composites were improved upon the addition of reinforcement particles. Addition of reinforcement reduces the tensile strength compared to unprocessed copper however strength increases with increase in volume percentage of Si3N4. Surface composite with 15 % Si3N4 shows higher hardness and wear resistance than other composites and pure copper.