Microstructure and Wear Characterization of A356-ZrSio4 Particulate Metal Matrix Composite

In the present industrial scenario aluminum alloys are playing a very important role as a substitutional material for conventional ferrous metals owing to their excellent properties like high strength and light weight. Metal matrix composite (MMCs) are very much popular in the field like automobile and aerospace industries, because of ease of fabrications process and excellent mechanical properties. In this paper it is aimed to present the research findings of A356-ZrSio4 (Zirconium Silicate) metal matrix Composites prepared by Stir Casting technique. The amount of reinforcement is varied from 0 to 7.5 %. The prepared composites are subjected to wear testing as per ASTM standards using pin on disc machine. The Brinells hardness of the composites was found to increase with increase in reinforcement in the composite. The structural analysis studied with help of optical microscope. The results indicated that as reinforcement content in the composites increase the wear resistance improved appreciably.