Tribological characteristics of Al/SiC/Gr hybrid composites

Abstract

Metal matrix composites (MMCs) are considered as important engineering materials due to their excellent mechanical, as well as tribological properties. When the metal (or alloy) matrix is reinforced with two or more reinforcements, those composites are the so-called hybrid composites. The aluminum metal matrix composites, reinforced with silicon carbide (SiC) and graphite (Gr), are extensively used due to their high strength and wear resistance. The tribological characteristics of such materials are superior to characteristics of the substrate. This research is presenting a review of their tribological characteristics, with emphasis on influence of the load, graphite and silicon carbide s and the sliding speed on the wear rate and the friction coefficient. The procedure for obtaining the hybrid MMCs, tribological test apparatus, the test conditions and applied analyses are presented. The conditions for increasing the wear resistance and the high strength are considered, as well.