The effect of composition segregation on the friction and wear properties of ZA48 alloy in dry sliding condition

In this study, the effect of composition segregation on the wear resistance of high aluminum zinc-based alloy is investigated. The test results show that the improving wear resistance is due to a combined action of α and η phase. The rich solid solution of α−Al has higher strength and load bearing capability than of η phase. Under the action of the sliding friction, the hard α phase was protruded from matrix and acted as a loading phase. The η phase helped to act as a type of natural lubricant in sliding wear situations. Meanwhile, the iron transferred from the steel ring to block and forced to the recess continuously, which forms a thin protective film at the contact surface, then the load bearing capability of the test alloy would be improved.