Effect of process parameters of Al5083/SiC surface composites fabricated by FSP on microstructure, mechanical properties and wear behaviors

Friction stir process (FSP) applications in producing surface composites have become the focus of researchers' attention in recent years. Axial load, tool rotation, feed rate, tool geometry, tool size and reinforcement material strategy are the main factors affecting the properties of surface composites (SC). In this study, Al5083-H111/SiC surface composites (SC) were produced in a single pass by friction stir process (FSP), and the effects of axial load and tool rotation speed on the microstructure, mechanical properties and wear behaviour of SCs were investigated. Different axial loads (6000, 8000 and 10000 N) and tool rotation speeds (560, 710 and 900 rpm) were used in the study. Optimum results from the tests performed were obtained in sample number N8, produced at an axial load of 8000 N and a rotation speed of 900 rpm. Specimen N8 showed a 38 % improvement in hardness and a 42 % improvement in wear tests performed under a 15 N load compared to the base metal. In the maximum tensile strength, the closest results to the base material were seen in sample N8 with 97 % performance.