High-temperature tribological performance of SiC _p /Al composite

This study systematically investigates the tribological behaviors and mechanisms of SiCp/Al composite under high-temperature conditions. Reciprocating ball-on-flat friction and wear tests were conducted at room temperature, 200°C, and 400°C. The frictional coefficient and wear volume were measured, and the worn surfaces were characterized using morphological analysis, chemical composition analysis, and hardness testing to elucidate the influence of temperature on the wear performance. The results indicate that both the frictional coefficient and wear volume of the composite increase monotonically with rising temperature. The underlying mechanism involves intensified aluminum alloy matrix softening and oxidation at high temperatures, which aggravates abrasive wear. At room temperature, the dominant wear mechanism is abrasive wear. As the temperature increases to 200°C and 400°C, matrix softening and oxidation promote the formation of additional hard abrasive particles, consequently intensifying the wear degree. This research clarifies the dominant role of matrix softening and oxidation in the high-temperature wear resistance of SiCp/Al composite, providing a theoretical basis for their application in high-temperature tribological components.