Processing and Characterization of Cu–10Sn/ZrO2 Alloys Processed Via Stir Casting Technique: Mechanical Properties and Wear Behavior Studies

Abstract

In this study, various amounts of nano-zirconia (ZrO<inf>2</inf>) were added as a reinforcement particle to synthesize Cu–10Sn–xZrO<inf>2</inf> alloy using stir casting techniques. The mechanical and wear properties of metal matrix composites depend on the type of reinforcement material, morphological features and amount of the reinforcement material is added to matrix. The developed alloy obtained hardness ranging from 69 to 87 BHN for the addition of 0 to 12 wt% of nano-ZrO<inf>2</inf> reinforcement particles. The ultimate tensile strength of developed alloys increased ranging from 271 MPa to 345 MPa, while yield strength showed 220 MPa to 263 MPa. Results indicate that ultimate tensile strength and yield strength of the reinforced alloys showed better mechanical properties than base alloy, which shows the significant influence of addition of reinforcement particles. The wear behavior of the developed alloys were examined using pin-on-disk tribometer. The developed reinforced alloys show that there was an increase in wear resistance with increasing the amount of nano-ZrO<inf>2</inf> particles. However, results indicate that increase in wear rate with increase in applied load and sliding speed, with the increase in reinforcement particles showed better wear resistance at higher applied load and sliding speed as compared to base alloy. Microstructural features of the worn surface carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Worn surface analysis exhibits that wear resistance increases at 8 and 12 wt% of nano-ZrO<inf>2</inf> particles. The prepared reinforced alloys exhibit excellent wear resistance, and hence, the developed reinforced alloys can be potentially used for various applications such as bearings and bushes. © 2022, American Foundry Society.