Influence of Microstructure on Tribological Behaviors of Al6061 Metal Matrix Composite Reinforced with Silicon Nitride (Si 3 N 4 ) and Silicon Carbide (SiC) Micro Particles

Dual step stir casting method was utilized to develop Al6061 composite reinforced with SiC (micron) and Si 3 N 4 (submicron) particles in varying proportion and weight percentage. A homogeneous and uniform distribution of hybrid reinforcement without significant porosity was observed in the microstructure of the composites. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results manifest that Si 3 N 4 and SiC particles are thermodynamically stable during the processing and no unwanted phases were detected. Elemental mapping was also performed for phase identification. With reference to the base alloy significant improvement was noticed in physical and tribological properties of hybrid composites. Maximum rise in hardness was 54.64%. Abrasive wear test results from pin on disc reveals that wear resistance get enhanced for all composition and load is found to be most dominating factor affecting wear behavior.