A Novel Real-Time Assessment of the Wear Analysis of Cu-Ni-Sn Hybrid Composite for Multifunctional Applications Strengthened by Nano B4C

Abstract

The hybrid composite is fabricated by powder metallurgy technique. The addition of ceramic reinforcements to the matrix phase helps in attaining tribological properties. Initially, the metal powders are prepared by atomization and reduction process. To reduce oxidation of pure metals, electrolytic process is carried out. The crushing, milling and sintering process are carried after atomization to obtain fine grain sized particles; these are then characterized using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD). The obtained particles are then blended and compacted to attain better hardness and wear resistant of the materials. The hybrid composites prepared for the analysis by reinforcing 15%Ni-8%Sn-4%B4C to the matrix phase Cu. The pin-on-disc method is incorporated to study the wear rate, hardness and co-efficient of friction. By varying the contribution parameters such as load 10 N-25 N, sliding distance 400 mm-1000 mm and sliding speed, the matrix phase materials exhibited rigorous wear, whereas the reinforced hybrid composite (Cu-15%Ni-8%Sn-4%B4C) provide good strength and wear resistant and also reduced volume loss of 25×10–5cm3and 110×10–5 cm3 for 10 N load with 400 mm and 1000 mm sliding distance even at sintering temperature of 900°C. The microstructure and morphology of the worn surface is analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy images. The sintered density of the hybrid composite is less due to reduced number of pores and so material defect is also condensed.

Keywords

• hybrid composite
• wear
• characterization
• powder metallurgy
• hardness