Development of WE43/TiC surface composites using friction stir processing: a parametric study

Abstract

Surface composites of WE43 Mg alloy reinforced with TiC nanoparticles were successfully fabricated using friction stir processing. The effects of various tool profiles, tool rotation, and transverse speeds on the metallurgical and mechanical properties of as-received and WE43/TiC composites were comprehensively investigated. The dispersion of TiC nanoparticles was uniform throughout the stir zone. The square tool at 1700 rev min−1 rotational speed and 60 mm min−1 transverse speed produced the finest grain structure in the composites, exhibiting maximum microhardness (151.7 Hv), maximum nano-hardness (1.596 GPa), maximum elastic moduli (36.54 GPa), and minimum wear rate (0.0279 mm3 min−1). Conversely, a square tool at 800 rev min−1 and 60 mm min−1 transverse speed produced the best mechanical properties in the WE43 alloy.