Sliding Wear Behavior of Stir Cast AZ91/ SiC sub(p) Composites

Tribological attributes of Mg-alloy (AZ91D) based composites reinforced with 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 wt% of silicon carbide particle (SiC sub(p)) synthesized by stir casting technique are being investigated. The composites show uniform distribution of SiC sub(p) and possess refined grains in comparison with the monolithic alloy. The cleaner interface depicts splendid interfacial bonding. The dry sliding wear behavior of the composites has been characterized using a pin on disc wear testing machine at two different normal loads of 19.6 and 39.4N. The volumetric wear rate, wear resistance and coefficient of friction for the composites shows phenomenal variations with fluctuations in load and SiC sub(p) content. Scanning electron micrographs of wear surface and wear debris provide excellent insight of the type of wear involved.