In the present investigation, effect of ceramic/graphite addition on the dry sliding wear behavior of copper-based hybrid composites have been assessed at three different normal loads of 9.81, 19.62 and 29.43 N. Wear test is performed by using pin-on-disc test rig at sliding speeds of 1.30 and 1.84 m/s under ambient conditions. The copper-based hybrid composites are successfully synthesized by using stir casting route. The samples are characterized by various techniques such as X-rays diffraction (XRD), high resolution-scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive analysis of X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX). Microstructural investigations reveal the presence of the WC, TiC and graphite particles in the hybrid composites. It is observed that graphite reinforced hybrid composite shows better wear resistance than hybrid composite without graphite addition. In all the cases cast copper specimen shows highest wear rate. The observed friction and wear behavior have been explained on the basis of the presence tribofilm on the worn surface. Microstructural characterization of the worn surface and wear debris show that the mechanism of wear is primarily adhesive and oxidative in case of cast copper, where as it is a mix of adhesive and abrasive wear in case of hybrid composites. Wear debris analysis also helps to understand the wear mechanism involved during dry sliding.
Part of the book: Hysteresis of Composites