Investigations on microstructural, mechanical, and tribological properties of Al-Cu-Ni alloy in cast, heat-treated, and strain-softened conditions

This research investigates the microstructural, mechanical, and tribological properties of Al-Cu-Ni alloys in the as-cast, solutionized, artificially aged condition. In addition, the influence of cold-rolling followed by solutionizing/strain softening on the microstructure and microhardness was evaluated through a comprehensive analysis. Microstructural examination reveals that the addition of nickel to Al-Cu-Ni leads to refined dendritic structures and intermetallic phase formation. Texture analysis and microhardness measurements demonstrate the impact of mechanical and heat treatments on grain size, orientation, and material hardness. Tribological characterization reveals superior wear resistance in the heat treated Al-Cu-Ni alloy, attributed to intermetallic phases and refined microstructures.