Experimental evaluation of wear behaviour of Al6061 hybrid metal matrix composites reinforced with SiC and graphite fabricated by stir casting

Department of Mechanical Engineering, Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore, India

^* Corresponding author: velmurugan.c.mec@kct.ac.in

Published online: 7 January 2026

Abstract

The Composites is a group of sophisticated materials made up of a metal alloy matrix that is strengthened using ceramic or organic particles. Commonly used matrix are aluminium, titanium, and copper, whereas reinforcements may comprise ceramic particles such as aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃), silicon carbide (SiC), boron carbide (B₄C) and as well as whiskers or fibers like carbon, boron, or steel. These composites exhibit several key characteristics, including a improved wear, high strength-to-weight ratio, thermal, and resistance to creep, enhanced stiffness and hardness, and superior fatigue performance. Due to these properties, MMCs are widely employed in aerospace, automotive, defence, electronics, and thermal management industries. The wear behaviour of the hybrid Al composites reinforced with SiC and graphite particles are tested in the present experimental work using laboratory-based pin-on-disc apparatus, with EN32 steel discs serving counter face material. The specimens were manufactured liquid metallurgy method. Parameters like sliding speed, load, and distance are varied and analysed in a systematic way to understand their effect on wear performance.