Characterisation of Plasticity Response for Reciprocating Sliding Wear Test of Ti-6Al-4V under Variables Normal Load

Reciprocating sliding wear test of uncoated titanium alloy, Ti-6Al-4V is investigated using pin-on-flat arrangement under variable applied normal load. The wear scar produced by the reciprocating sliding wear test is analysed by surface profile examination using 2D and 3D optical microscope (OM) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Through SEM, the energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) is used to characterise the composition of the substance on the worn surface. The hardness value of the wear scar is investigated at three regions which are; worn, unworn and the end of the wear track using Micro Vickers Hardness Test. The presence of moderate oxygen composition and the increasing in hardness value at the end of wear track suggesting evidence of plastic deformation. The increase in hardness value at the end of wear track indicates increase in plastic deformation with increasing applied normal load.