Optimization of wear properties in aluminum metal matrix composites using hybrid taguchi-GRA-PCA

Abstract

The present work is based on the formation of aluminum alloy AA6063/SiCp metal matrix composites by an enhanced liquid metallurgy stir casting route and optimization of wear properties by utilizing Taguchi based GRA integrated with a PCA approach. The AMCs (having 37µm SiC particle size) are manufactured in three different wt. % (3.5 wt%, 7 wt% and 10.5 wt%) of SiC reinforcement particles. The exploratory runs to examine the wear performance are executed as per L9 Taguchi plan to acquire the wear information in a controlled way. The wear loss data in terms of height loss is acquired using pin-on-disc tribometer attached to LVDT arrangement. Impact of three control factors, viz, Load (N), Sliding distance (m) and Wt. % of SiC on performance characteristics such as wear rate, frictional force and specific wear rate in dry slippery conditions are inspected to obtain the optimum level of process parameters. ANOVA is likewise completed to assess the impact of three control factors on wear rate, frictional force, and specific wear rate. Experimental analysis revealed that the wear behavior enhanced under optimum experimental states. Optical microscopic examinations of the worn-out samples are also conducted to describe the wear mechanism of the as-cast matrix composites.