Influence of Hot forging on Tribological behavior of Al6061-TiB2 In-situ composites

Abstract

Al6061-TiB2 metal matrix composite was fabricated by stir casting technique via in-situ reaction, using mixture of Al6061 alloy, Potassium tetraflouroborate salt (KBF4) and tetraflourotitanate (K2TiF6). The cast composites were processed to hot forging, SEM studies; X- ray Diffraction studies (XRD), Microhardness and Dry friction and wear tests. Pin on disc type machine was used to perform tribological tests over a load range of 20-100N and sliding velocities of 0.314-1.57m/s. SEM and XRD studies confirms formation of fine in-situ TiB2 particles. Composites exhibit higher Microhardness, improved wear resistance and Lower COF with formation of TiB2 particles when compared with the unreinforced alloy. Compared to cast alloy and its Composites, forged alloy and its composites show superior Tribological behavior under similar test conditions.