Tribology properties of TiCp/ZA43 composite under continuously lubricated sliding condition

Abstract

ZA43 alloys reinforced with TiC particles were fabricated by XD™ and stirring-casting techniques. The sliding friction and wear properties of the unreinforced ZA43 alloy and the composites under continuously lubricated condition were studied by using a block-on-ring apparatus. Experimental results showed that the addition of TiC particles was a very effective way of improving the microstructure and wear resistance of the matrix alloy. Both coefficient of friction (μ) and the width of worn groove decreased with the TiC volume fraction (V _f) increasing, and increased with the applied load increasing. Metallographic examinations revealed that unreinforced ZA43 alloy had deep ploughing grooves with obvious adhesion phenomenon, whereas TiC/ZA43 composites had smooth worn surface. Delamination formation was related to the fatigue cracks and the shear cracks on the surface. During the wear process, sub-surface micro-hardness values of ZA43 alloy and TiC/ZA43 composites give a different variation.

Keywords:

• tic/za43 composite
• continuously lubricated condition
• tribology.