Title: Friction and wear behaviour of an Al-based metal-matrix composite against automobile friction materials

Authors: G. Straffelini, M. Pellizzari, L. Maines, A. Molinari

Addresses: Dipartimento di Ingegneria dei Materiali, Universita di Trento, via Mesiano 77, 38100 Trento, Italy. Dipartimento di Ingegneria dei Materiali, Universita di Trento, via Mesiano 77, 38100 Trento, Italy. Dipartimento di Ingegneria dei Materiali, Universita di Trento, via Mesiano 77, 38100 Trento, Italy. Dipartimento di Ingegneria dei Materiali, Universita di Trento, via Mesiano 77, 38100 Trento, Italy

Abstract: An Al-based metal matrix composite containing 20 vol.% of SiC particles was submitted to dry sliding tests to verify its suitability for the production of brake discs for the automobile industry. Three types of friction materials were investigated, and tests against cast iron were also carried out for comparison. The tests were carried out at increasing applied loads, and the evolution of friction coefficient, surface temperature and wear was monitored. The obtained results are only partially promising. Friction is low and decreases as the applied load and surface temperature are increased. The high thermal conductivity of the material does not play the expected role. Wear, finally, was negligible, but surface damage was present and intense, and this could produce severe wear in the case of prolonged sliding.

Keywords: Al-base metal-matrix composites; automobile industry; brake systems; friction and wear; sliding behaviour.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMPT.2002.001315

International Journal of Materials and Product Technology, 2002 Vol.17 No.3/4, pp.275-290

Published online: 02 Jul 2003 *

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