Dry sliding and mechanical characteristics of aerospace grade aluminium composite reinforced with TiO2/BN particle

Abstract

The current work examined the development of the AA7050 composite reinforced with different weight percentages of TiO₂ (1, 2 %) and BN (0.5, 1, 1.5 %) particles utilizing a liquid metallurgy process combined with an ultrasonic transducer. The crystal structural, mechanical, and dry sliding wear behaviour of the manufactured composite was investigated. Advanced characterization techniques like as optical microscopy, FESEM, and optical profilometer analysis were employed to investigate microstructure and worn surface morphology. The composite wear test was carried out on a pin-on-disc configuration under dry sliding circumstances, using various sliding distances and typical loads. Microstructure analysis of the composite reveals a homogeneous division of reinforcing particles across the matrix. The results of the mechanical and wear tests revealed that the compound with 2 % TiO₂ by weight and 1 % BN particles has optimum value. The maximum values of microhardness and compressive strength are found to be 177 HV and 541.73 MPa, respectively. This increase in the mechanical properties of the composite is due to the hard nature of TiO₂/BN particles. FESEM examination of worn out wear pin shows wear debris, small grooves, cracks, and ploughing on the surface. Surface roughness and 3D analysis of worn surfaces were analyzed using an optical profilometer.