Wear of ZA27/10SiC/1Gr hybrid composite

Abstract

Metal matrix composites are extensively researched due to their potential advantages over monolithic alloys. The paper presents the wear characteristics of a hybrid composite based on zinc-aluminium ZA27 alloy, reinforced with silicon-carbide (SiC) and graphite (Gr) particles. The tested sample contains 10 vol.% of SiC and 1 vol.% Gr particles. The experiments on the ZA27/SiC/Gr composite were performed on a computer supported tribometer with “block-on-disc” contact geometry under conditions of dry sliding. The paper contains the procedure for preparation of sample composites and presents the microstructure of the composite material and the base ZA27 alloy observed by metallurgy microscope. The wear behaviour of the alloy and the composite were determined under different test conditions, by varying normal loads and sliding speeds.