Estimation of tribological properties of orthotic calipers fabricated using bamboo reinforced epoxy composite

Composite materials are best material which mankind can get as they are available in abundant and are natural. The word 'Composite' is shortened form of Composition and is defined as a solid matter composed of more than one component having different physical and chemical composition. The final product obtained is found out to have a better property meeting the specific requirement. It has wide range of application in agriculture, automobile industry, medicine, sports and aerospace. In the present scenario, the need for more different polymer-based composites has extended in enhancing inclination towards polymer-based composites strengthened with natural fillers, i.e., fillers derived from nature. The main aim of this work is to design an orthotic calipers/braces with epoxy-based composites using bamboo dust as natural filler. Orthotic calipers/braces are an aid/appliance used by the patients whose joints are feeble and need support to carry out their day to day work or have locomotor disability. Mostly patients who are suffering from polio/or are handicapped use braces. Presently orthotic calipers are made up of Aluminum alloys which are considerably heavy so main purpose is to design calipers which will possess better strength, stiffness, low density, cheap, easiness in fabrication, environment friendly and sustainable and most important lighter in weight. Tribological test has been done to find out the longevity of the product. It is observed that the specific wear rate and coefficient of friction is minimum. (c) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Selection and peer-review under responsibility of the scientific committee of the 2nd International Conference on Manufacturing Material Science and Engineering.