Producing a composite surface using friction stir processing

Qu Jun, Feng Zhili, Xu Hanbing, D. Alan Frederick, Brian C. Jolly, Stan A. David

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Aluminum alloys would have much wider usage in bearing applications if their wear-resistance could be significantly improved. This investigation developed a solid-state surface engineering process to form an aluminum-alumina composite surface by friction stirring ceramic particles into an aluminum surface to improve the surface hardness and wear-resistance without sacrificing the bulk ductility and conductivity. Composite layers have been successfully processed on pure aluminum (Al 1100) surfaces that have a relatively uniform particle distribution with a concentration up to 25 vol% of alumina. Microscopic examination showed that particles were severely fractured during friction stir processing and, accordingly, the particle size decreased from the original 10-50 Urn to 1-5 urn in the friction stir processed composite layer. The microindentation hardness of the aluminum surface was increased from 0.33 to 0.70 GPa (HV) and the wear-resistance was improved by 30X when rubbing against a bearing steel. It has been demonstrated that powder placement methods and process parameters can be tailored to improve particle dispersion and surface hardness. Unlike most other surface engineering techniques, this process can form very thick layers, up to centimeters in thickness, avoiding delamination because of the inherent material continuity.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProcessing and Engineering Applications of Novel Materials
PublisherAmerican Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
Pages33-36
Number of pages4
ISBN (Print)0791843076, 9780791843079
DOIs
StatePublished - 2008
EventASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition, IMECE 2007 - Seattle, WA, United States
Duration: Nov 11 2007Nov 15 2007

Publication series

NameASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition, Proceedings
Volume13

Conference

ConferenceASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition, IMECE 2007
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySeattle, WA
Period11/11/0711/15/07

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