Physical, Mechanical, and Tribological Properties of Al6061-B4C Composites.

Aluminum matrix composites are often preferred in automotive, aerospace, and ship building, owing to their enhanced properties over conventional aluminum alloys. Aluminum metal matrix composites reinforced with particulates extend improved wear resistance and mechanical properties. In this article, the test inferences of physical, mechanical, and tribological properties of Al6061 matrix reinforced with boron carbide (B₄C) are explained. Composites were processed that contained 0 to 3% B₄C by weight, in steps of 1%. The method used for manufacturing the casting is the stir casting route (liquid metallurgy). All testing was conducted according to ASTM standards. The results of density obtained from the experiments are compared with the density as calculated from the rule of mixtures. The resistance to deformation and ultimate tensile strength improved with the addition of particulate reinforcement, but not at the cost of ductility. The ductility has been stored, to some extent. The effect of reinforcement on composites has been further confirmed by a Pareto chart, an interaction plot obtained from Minitab software. The tests were conducted in randomized order. The dry sliding wear of the composites with B₄C reinforcement displayed the greater resistance to wear in comparison with unreinforced Al6061 alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]