Wear behaviour of SiC-Reinforced Metal Matrix Composites FeCrNiCuMo High Entropy Alloy Processed Through Powder Metallurgy

Abstract

Abstract A series of FeCrNiCuMo high-entropy alloys with different SiC (x = 10 and 15% wt. %) contents were designed, and their microstructure and tribological behaviour were investigated. The tribological behaviour and wear resistance of the composites were evaluated at a range of sliding speeds (20, 30, and 40 ms− 1) in a brake dynamometer for brake friction material applications. According to the estimates of volume loss, wear rate, and friction coefficient, the possible wear mechanisms were suggested in all cases. Additionally, SEM/EDS analysis was conducted on the worn surfaces and debris. With the increase in sliding speed, the wear rate increases due to the increased intensity of abrasive wear, oxidation wear, and plastic deformation-assisted wear. The materials possessed excellent braking performance and wear resistance. The values of average coefficient friction under A1 (20ms− 1), A2 (30ms− 1), and A3 (40ms− 1) sliding conditions were 0.23, 0.29, and 0.34, respectively. In comparison to the A3, the A1 exhibits a lower volume wear loss. As the sliding speed change, adhesive wear and abrasive wear become more prevalent, and fatigue wear also occurs.