Influence of Hot forging on Tribological behavior of Al6061-TiB₂ In-situ composites

Al6061-TiB₂ metal matrix composite was fabricated by stir casting technique via in-situ reaction, using mixture of Al6061 alloy, Potassium tetraflouroborate salt (KBF₄) and tetraflourotitanate (K₂TiF₆). The cast composites were processed to hot forging, SEM studies; X- ray Diffraction studies (XRD), Microhardness and Dry friction and wear tests. Pin on disc type machine was used to perform tribological tests over a load range of 20-100N and sliding velocities of 0.314-1.57m/s. SEM and XRD studies confirms formation of fine in-situ TiB₂ particles. Composites exhibit higher Microhardness, improved wear resistance and Lower COF with formation of TiB₂ particles when compared with the unreinforced alloy. Compared to cast alloy and its Composites, forged alloy and its composites show superior Tribological behavior under similar test conditions. (paper)