Influence of silicon carbide on tribological behaviour of AA2024/Al₂O₃/SiC/Gr hybrid metal matrix squeeze cast composite using Taguchi technique

In the current scenario aluminium and its alloys are replaced by Aluminium Matrix Composites (AMCs) in manufacturing sectors owing to their excellent toughness to weight ratio, ease of processing, good corrosion resistance, thermal conductivity, and desirable mechanical properties. This research work investigates the tribological behaviour on the effect of SiC weight % in AA2024 composite via squeeze casting technique. A specified proportion of aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃), graphite (Gr) and different wt% of silicon carbide (SiC) were selected. The factors (SiC wt%, sliding distance, sliding velocity, and applied load) were varied using Taguchi L16 orthogonal array to reduce the robustness of the experiments. ANOVA and regression equation was carried out to understand the influence of separate parameters and relations on the coefficient of friction (COF) along with the wear rate. COF and wear responses of the developed samples were significantly influenced by the processing parameters at a 95% confidence level. Overall, the study indicated that the reinforcement percentage is the most influencing factor in dry sliding wear and COF. 3 wt% of SiC particulates exposed better tribological properties. AA2024/Al₂O₃/SiC/Gr reinforced composite was improved by 78% compared with AA2024/Al₂O₃/Gr. (paper)