Title: Analysis optimisation of machining aspects and wear characterisation of Al6061 reinforced with SiC and graphite

Authors: H.S. Balasubramanya; B.V. Nagesh; N.D. Prasanna; Yogesha Lakkegowda; S.M. Aradhya

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Ramaiah Institute of Technology (Autonomous), Bangalore, India; Affiliated to: VTU, India ' Department of Physics, Ramaiah Institute of Technology (Autonomous), Bangalore, India; Affiliated to: VTU, India ' Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Ramaiah Institute of Technology (Autonomous), Bangalore, India; Affiliated to: VTU, India ' Department of Physics, Government Science College (Autonomous), Hassan, Karnataka, India ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Kalpataru Institute of Technology, Tiptur, India

Abstract: Aluminium alloy confirming to Al6061 specifications was reinforced with 3%, 6%, and 9% SiC in powder form along with 1% graphite powder by weight basis. Stir casting route was employed to prepare the specimen. Micro structure examination and mechanical properties such as UTS, hardness measurements were carried out. Wear studies in the dry sliding condition were carried out using standard pin-on-disc apparatus confirming to ASTM G99 specifications. The structural examination revealed a uniform dispersion of the reinforcement. Tensile strength and hardness values increased with concentration of SiC. Wear resistance is improved with higher amounts of reinforcement. Decrease in the wear rate is observed with addition of graphite. Regression analysis was carried out for assessment of wear and the wear rate was obtained. The contribution of input parameters on the wear rate has been determined using ANOVA. Model and experimental data compare well with each other.

Keywords: Al6061; SiC; graphite; metal matrix composites; MMC; wear; hardness; tensile strength; universal testing machine; UTM; regression analysis; analysis of variances; ANOVA.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMATEI.2023.128266

International Journal of Materials Engineering Innovation, 2023 Vol.14 No.1, pp.49 - 59

Received: 24 Jan 2022
Accepted: 03 Apr 2022
Published online: 16 Jan 2023 *