Wear performance of Al-Fe-V-Si particle reinforced cast aluminium alloy composites

Near net shaped high temperature cast aluminium alloy composites were fabricated by infiltration of liquid A201 aluminium alloy into a preform with 60 vol.-% of comminuted particles from melt spun Al-Fe-V-Si alloy ribbons. The room temperature and elevated temperature weal resistances of the rapidly solidified Al-Fe-V-Si particle reinforced A201 aluminium alloy composites (referred to as A201/FVS1212) were compared with those of the control monolithic A201 aluminium alloy and 15 vol.-%Al2O3 particle reinforced 6061 aluminium alloy composite. The superior wear resistance of the A201/FVS1212 composite materials at elevated temperatures was explained by the associated high elevated temperature compression strength of the materials. Oxides of almandine and alumina phase, existing on the worn surface of A201/FVS1212 composites, were identified by low angle X-ray diffraction and energy dispersive X-ray chemical analysis. The high elevated temperature compression strength and reaction compounds on the surface may both contribute to the lower friction coefficient of the A201/FVS1212 composites worn against steel. (C) 1997 The Institute of Materials.