Tribological behaviour of hybrid-reinforced LM30 aluminium metal matrix composites

Abstract The development of wear-resistant materials is critical for researchers aiming to extend the life of sliding components employed in mechanical engineering fields by reducing friction-related energy losses. The motive of the study is to fabricate the hybrid composites of aluminium which include the reinforcements made of mullite (Mul), silicon carbide (SiC), and tungsten disulphide (WS 2 ) for different tribological purposes. The composites were made using stir casting mechanism by varying the compositions of reinforcements. The experimental study indicates that the composites containing 10% wt.% of Mul, 10 wt.% of SiC, and 3 wt.% of WS 2 exhibit optimum wear resistance. Furthermore, the scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis concluded a homogeneous distribution of the used compositions within the matrix material, stating a strong bond between the base metal and added reonforcements. The outcome of the study with the use of SiC, Mul, and WS 2 to develop an aluminium-based metal matrix composites has a good scope in the mechanical and automobile sectors.