Investigation on wear properties of Aluminum reinforced with ZrO2 and Rice Husk Ash

Abstract

Al 6061 is one of the most important light weight material used in industries. But its application is limited due to its restriction in mechanical properties like hardness and yield strength. The main problem existing in the industries is to develop components of less weight with good mechanical characteristics. So, an Metal Matrix hybrid composite was developed with Aluminium 6061 using Zirconium dioxide and rich husk ash as the reinforcements through stir casting method. These were added in the proportions to the weight% of 1%, 2%, 3% and 4% respectively. To evaluate the wear properties the obtained casting component was machined to get the standard pins of diameter 10 mm and the wear test was performed. The result shows that decrease in wear rate is achieved without affecting the density of the material.