Preparation and tribological behavior of Cr3C2 particles reinforced Al matrix composite

In this study, Cr₃C₂ particle reinforced aluminum matrix composites were fabricated by ultrasonic agitation casting method. Microstructure, mechanical properties, and tribological properties of pure aluminum and Cr₃C_2p/Al composites were researched systematically. Scanning electron microscopy and 3D laser scanning confocal microscope were used to study the influence of different loads (10, 20, 30, and 40 N) and Cr₃C₂ contents (1.0, 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 wt %) on the tribological behaviors of the composites. The results showed that 2.0 wt % Cr₃C_2p/Al composites exhibited the best mechanical properties and wear resistance. The average volume wear rate was about 48 % lower than that of the matrix material. The wear mechanism of the composites changed from adhesion wear to abrasive wear and fatigue wear with the addition of Cr₃C₂ particles. The tribological properties of 2.0 wt % Cr₃C_2p/Al composites under the load of 30 N were the best. The average volume wear rate was the smallest, which was about 24 % lower than that of 10 N load. The improvement of the tribological behavior of the composite was attributed to the refinement of microstructure and improvement of the mechanical properties.