Optimization of Wear Properties of B4C Nanoparticle-Reinforced Al7075 Nanocomposites Using Taguchi Approach

Abstract

In the present work, Al7075 nanocomposites with varying B<inf>4</inf>C contents were produced using powder metallurgy technique. The developed nanocomposites were subjected to microstructure, grain size and wear behaviour analysis. Dry sliding wear test of nanocomposites was conducted as per ASTM G99 standard using pin on disc test ring using Taguchi L9 approach with varying B<inf>4</inf>C nanoparticles (2.5, 5 and 10%), load (10, 20 and 30 N), speed (200, 250 and 300 rpm) and sintering temperature (500, 550 and 600 °C). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed uniform dispersion and good bonding between B<inf>4</inf>C nanoparticles and Al7075 matrix. Grain size analysis conducted according to ASTM E112-96 showed that irrespective of sintering temperature the average grain diameter of nanocomposites decreased as the B<inf>4</inf>C nanoparticle content increased. According to response table for S/N ratio, the most influential parameter on wear volume was B<inf>4</inf>C nanoparticles content. Worn surface analysis showed delamination and abrasion as dominant mechanisms for nanocomposites with lower B<inf>4</inf>C nanoparticle content and abrasion for nanocomposites with higher B<inf>4</inf>C nanoparticle content. © 2022, The Institution of Engineers (India).