Multidirectional Forging of High-Leaded Tin Bronze: Effect on Wear Performance

Abstract

The dry sliding wear behavior of high-leaded tin bronze alloy was analyzed after multidirectional forging (MDF). The effect of MDF on the wear performance was analyzed under various loads, sliding velocities, and sliding distances. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were carried out on wear surfaces to define the wear mechanism, and field-emission scanning electron microscopy to observe microstructures. The change in the dislocation density on the wear track was also measured using XRD peak broadening analysis. MDF alloys showed higher wear resistance than as-received (AR) alloy. The major factors responsible for the improved wear resistance were (a) improved mechanical strength due to decreased crystalline size, and (b) presence of high lead content in the alloy.