An analytical study of metal matrix composite materials for railway brake pad applications

Metal matrix composite (MMC) has emerged as a promising engineered material offering unique properties relevant to railway brake pad development. As a critical component of railway braking systems, brake pads necessitate meticulous material selection and development. This study focuses on fabricating MMCs tailored for railway brake pads, comprising a composition of Copper (Cu) 35%, Aluminum (Al) 15%, Iron (Fe) 20%, Magnesium (Mg) 12%, Coconut Charcoal (C) 15%, and Silicon (Si) 3%. Microstructure analysis of brake pad specimens was conducted through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), while wear analysis was performed using the Ogoshi method. Both analyses were conducted post-sintering the specimens at 750°C and normalizing for 12 hours. The results of these analyses were scrutinized to evaluate the suitability of the specimens for implementation as railway brake pads, considering their mechanical and wear properties.