Influences of pinprofile and transverse speed on microstructure, mechanical properties, and wear behavior of nanocomposite AA6082/WC and fabricated via friction stir processing

Friction stir processing (FSP) was successfully employed to produce AA6082/WC composite material. This research uses nano-sized WC particles of 50 nm average diameter as a reinforcement material. In order to identify the best condition for producing AA6082/WC composite material, two-pin profiles and four feed rates at 1200-rpm tool rotational velocity were used. The microstructure of the AA6082/WC obtained composites was investigated using a light optical microscope (LOM), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM). Results showed a homogenous distribution and excellent interfacial bonding between WC nanoparticles and the base matrix.The mechanical tests result showed significant improvement in obtained composite mechanical properties using different pin profiles and transverse speed. The composite processed by a cylindrical left pin tool had the highest ultimate tensile strength (UTS) strength, yield strength (YS), and microhardness compared to the hexagonal pin tool. The well-distributed nano-WC particles within the matrix improved the wear resistance by preventing the peeling of the A6082 grains during the sliding wear test.