Ti₂SC MAX phase enhanced wear characteristics of Al 2024 via friction stir processing

ABSTRACT

In this research work, wear characteristics of the Al2024 alloy exposed to friction stir processing (FSP) with/without addition of the Ti₂SC MAX phase have been investigated. Microstructural investigations revealed a good correlation between SZ and base alloy, and no defects such as cracks, etc. were detected. SEM micrographs confirmed the uniform dispersion of the Ti₂SC particles in the Al2024 matrix after FSP. Also, redistribution of the precipitates of Al2024 alloy was observed. A decrease in the hardness of the 3-pass FSPed specimen without Ti₂SC was observed due to the grain size increase and coarsening of the precipitates. The considerable improvement in wear rate and friction coefficient was realised by adding the Ti₂SC MAX phase in the base alloy. Abrasive abrasion properties such as ploughing, plastic deformation, and grooves on surfaces indicate abrasive abrasion is the predominant wear mechanism for all specimens.

KEYWORDS:

• Friction stir processing
• Al2024
• wear behaviour
• Ti₂SC
• MAX phase

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).