Investigation of Tensile behaviour, Seizure Conditions and Frictional Characteristics of Al-Zn-Cu-Mg Alloy based Composites.

In a current scenario, light weighted composites are the prime need of manufacturers in aerospace, automotive, marine and other applications due to their excellent properties compared to traditional materials. The current study includes the fabrication of Al Alloy 7068-based composites reinforced with Si₃N₄ nanoparticles by 0.5 to 2.0 wt. % by maintaining a difference of 0.5 wt. % through stir casting approach advanced with ultrasonic treatment. The effect of reinforcement on the tensile behaviour of casted samples was analyzed in terms of ultimate tensile strength, and ductility. The wear performance of casted samples was analysed in terms of volumetric weight loss and COF under the effect of applied pressure, sliding velocity and sliding distance. On the investigation of tensile strength, 1.5 wt. % nanocomposite is the optimum one beyond which agglomeration starts which affects the strength. Wear loss increased with applied stress, sliding velocity and sliding distance. COF also increased with sliding distance but decreased with applied stress. There is a significant increment in seizure pressure noticed with reinforcement addition. Adhesion is the dominant wear mechanism observed during sliding, whereas mixed (adhesion and abrasion) type of wear is noticed for 2 wt. % at higher applied pressure and distance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]