Tribological impact on borosilicate glass powder reinforced Al-MMC by variation of sliding velocity and the study of its machinability

Abstract

Now-a-days, metal matrix composites based on pure aluminium are widely used as a replacement for a wide range of applications thanks to their high strength-to-weight ratio, ductility, and thermal conductivity. Micron-sized (10-3 mm) borosilicate (mixer of Silica (SiO2) and Boron Oxide (B2O3)) glass particles were used to create a dispersion in an aluminium matrix composite (Al7075- borosilicate glass MMC) utilizing a stir casting technique while in a liquid condition. The present study examines the effect of borosilicate glass particle content (0, 3, 6, and 9 wt. %) and changes in sliding velocity (0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 m/s) on the wear behaviour of a composite rubbing against an EN31 steel disc at a constant load of 20N and a sliding distance of 1000 m. Analysis of wear showed that the presence of borosilicate glass increased the wear rate and countered the trend shown in the coefficient of friction. In a similar vein, the sliding velocity of the counter plate rotated faster resulted in a higher coefficient of friction and a higher wear rate. A reliable mathematical model is developed to find the best combination of machining parameters for Al7075-borosilicate glass metal matrix composite (MMC). This model will consider important performance measures like surface smoothness and material removal rate. The authors will also use a sophisticated statistical method called the Taguchi L9 orthogonal array design of experiments (DOE) to understand how different machining settings affect how easily the composite can be machined. By analyzing the results from the DOE, it can optimize the machining parameters for efficient and cost-effective processing. This work can lead to manufacturing innovation in the future.