Comparison of Wear and Friction Characteristics of Al and Al-Al2O3 MMNCS Prepared By Non-Contact Cavitation Method-I

Abstract

In this experimental study, the wear and friction characteristics of pure Al and Al–Al₂O₃ Metal Matrix Nano Composites are compared. Metal Matrix Nano Composites are fabricated by non-contact cavitation method by blending 1.5 wt.% of Al2O3 nano particles of 10nm, 50nm and 80nm sizes respectively with pure aluminium.The specimens are subjected to dry sliding wear tests by applying constant loads and speeds.The worn out faces are subjected to microscopic analysis. Tests and analysis reveal that MMNCs register much higher wear and friction resistance compared to aluminium. Lowestwear is registered by MMNC reinforced with alumina particles of 10nm size. Rate of wear increaseswith increase in load, sliding velocity and particlesize.Friction resistance and wear resistance decrease with increase in load, velocity and particle size. Abrasion and delamination are the categories of wear detected in MMNCs.