Evaluation of microstructure and tribological characterization of friction stir processed Al 6063 / B4C+SiO2 composites

Abstract

Friction Stir Processing (FSP) is an effective solid state surface modification technique over conventional processing technologies. In the present work, the two reinforcement particles of B4C and SiO2 with different weight ratio were compacted in a square groove of 1.9mm width and 3mm depth on Al 6063 alloy. Al 6063 surface hybrid composites is obtained through friction stir processing by means of a non consumable tool. The tool is made of High speed steel hardened to 51HRC of square probe which is rotated at constant rotational speed, traverse speed and axial force of 1200 rpm, 40mm/min, and 8 kN respectively. The homogeneity of reinforced particles in Al matrix material has been evaluated through microstructure by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the wear resistance was analyzed through pin –on –disc tribometer at different loads. The results revealed that the distribution of the reinforced particles was uniform and the grain size refinement of an average size of 8 µm has been obtained through multipass FSP. Specific wear rate varies based on applied load and weight ratio of B4C and SiO2.Friction Stir Processing (FSP) is an effective solid state surface modification technique over conventional processing technologies. In the present work, the two reinforcement particles of B4C and SiO2 with different weight ratio were compacted in a square groove of 1.9mm width and 3mm depth on Al 6063 alloy. Al 6063 surface hybrid composites is obtained through friction stir processing by means of a non consumable tool. The tool is made of High speed steel hardened to 51HRC of square probe which is rotated at constant rotational speed, traverse speed and axial force of 1200 rpm, 40mm/min, and 8 kN respectively. The homogeneity of reinforced particles in Al matrix material has been evaluated through microstructure by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the wear resistance was analyzed through pin –on –disc tribometer at different loads. The results revealed that the distribution of the reinforced particles was uniform and the grain size refinement of an average size of 8 µm has been obtained through mu...