Study on Tribological Characteristics of Self-lubricating AA2218-Fly ash-White graphite Composites

In the present scenario composite materials are extensively used for structural applications in automobile and aerospace industries. Composite material exhibits a high strength to weight ratio, improved hardness, reduced weight and low coefficient of friction. Because of their enhanced tribological properties helps to achieve low manufacturing cost and superior performance. The present research is primarily focused on the development of self-lubricating hybrid metal matrix composites. Self-lubricating composite materials gives better results where it is very difficult to maintain lubrication effect consistently. An attempt has been made to explore the possibility of using white graphite for synthesizing AA2218 based self lubricating composite through metal stir casting route. In this study 4 wt. % of white graphite (hBN) used as a first phase reinforcement and as in the case of second phase reinforcement, 5 wt. %, 10 wt. %, 15 wt. % of fly ash particles were added into the matrix melt by creating the vortex with the help of mechanical stirrer. The self-lubricating composite characterized in terms of density, dry sliding wear, coefficient of friction and micro structural properties.