Microstructure and tribological behaviour of nano-embedded Al-alloys

Abstract

Soft dispersions in a hard matrix form one of the prime requirements for designing microstructure with good tribological properties. During the past two decades, there have been efforts to develop aluminium alloys for bearing applications. These alloys generally contain soft metals like Pb, Bi and In (1). These efforts have primarily focused on alloys having micron scaled dispersoids. In recent times, the synthesis of nanoscaled dispersoids by rapid solidification processing has attracted significant attention (2). The results in most cases suggest significant difference in behaviour. This paper reports the results of an investigation on the friction and wear behaviour of aluminium alloys containing nanodispersed Pb, Bi and In respectively. The results suggest significant improvement of frictional properties under mild wear conditions. We attempt to understand the wear mechanism, and probe into the influence of nanoscaled dispersion of Pb, In and Bi in a comparative manner.